How do I get referred to the Waikato Kidney Clinic?
Your GP will refer to us if they think you need a specialist opinion, or you can contact us directly for an appointment.
If you are making an appointment without a referral letter from your GP or specialist, you can simply give us a call and book an appointment time. It is helpful if you have detailed information of your current medical problems and any medications – you can request copies of these from your GP. Please note some insurance companies will not pay for specialist appointments without a referral letter from your GP.
When are appointments available?
Appointments in Hamilton are usually between 6-9pm on weekdays and 9am-1pm on Saturdays. Tauranga clinic appointments are usually once a month on a weekend, between 10am-2pm.
Initial consultations will be for one hour to allow time for a detailed history, examination and discussion of the clinical issues. Follow up appointments will take 20-30 minutes.
What do I need to bring to my first appointment?
If your GP or specialist has referred you to us, we will have a copy of your medical records, but please bring with you any notes or other information you think is important.
If you have made an appointment without a referral, please bring detailed information of your current medical problems and any medications, as well as any x-rays, MRI or CT scans and blood test results. You can request copies of this information from your GP.
Can a support person come with me to my appointments?
You are most welcome to bring someone with you for support during your appointment. It is often helpful to have someone else there to listen to important medical information, for emotional or practical support, and to discuss decisions with, if needed.
Can I bring my children with me?
We are a child-friendly clinic and you can bring your children with you. However, you may find it easier to focus on important medical information without children to care for.
What do I need to bring if my appointment is part of an immigration assessment?
We need the right information to meet the requirements and answer the question(s) of the Immigration New Zealand medical assessor. Please make sure you bring with you:
- your letter (if you have one) from Immigration New Zealand*
- your Immigration New Zealand application number
- your Immigration New Zealand client number
- a list of your medications, including any herbal or nutritional supplements
- copies of any medical records you may have from places you have lived outside of New Zealand
- copies of reports of any imaging investigations you may have had, such as x-rays, MRI and CT scans or ultrasounds.
* Your lawyer or immigration consultant may have this, please contact them to get a copy before your appointment.
What if I am a Southern Cross member?
Dr Rabi is a Southern Cross approved affiliated healthcare provider. Southern Cross Insurance will pay your consultation charge in part or in full, depending on the type of policy you have.
It would be helpful for you to contact Southern Cross before your appointment to check your eligibility for the payment and to get the company to approve the consultation.