Going to hospital guide
Before hospital
-
STEP 1Speak with your GP
Whether you have an ongoing issue or noticed a change that you'd like to investigate, your GP is the place to start if you have concerns about your health.
-
STEP 2Get a referral
Patients can be referred to a specialist or consultant physician for treatment of their condition. Many people don’t know that a referral can be used for any specialist in the same medical specialty.
-
STEP 3Understand your GMHBA policy
To avoid unexpected out of pocket costs and to help you feel more comfortable about your hospital stay, we encourage you to contact GMHBA as soon as you find out that you may need to go to hospital.
-
STEP 4Find the right specialist for you
Not all specialists charge the same fees, practice at the same hospitals or are available to be seen immediately. Understand questions you can ask and the ways you can select a specialist of your choice.
-
STEP 5Meet your preferred specialist
Once you have selected a specialist, understand what to expect, and what to ask them about any proposed treatments.
-
STEP 6Understand your procedure and costs involved
Surgeons, anaesthetists, excesses, diagnostics, hospital, medical, and pharmacy costs. It is important for you to understand what you are covered for under your policy, the fees doctors and hospitals may charge for their services and which of these can be paid for under your health insurance.
At hospital
-
STEP 7Hospital admission - what to expect
Understand what to expect when you go to hospital, and some helpful hints for your stay.
-
STEP 8Understand your rights and responsibilities in hospital
From medical costs, informed financial consent and trusting family members to make decisions on your behalf.
After hospital
-
STEP 9After your treatment
What to expect after a treatment or surgery can differ depending on your expected outcome. Understand what questions to ask your specialist after your treatment, and learn about rehabilitation and support.
