FAQs

You can book an appointment by calling us during business hours at 07 3186 6623, emailing us at admin@dradamcoughlan.com.au , or by using our online form to request an appointment.

Most medical specialists require a referral to ensure that the specialist is well-suited to address your specific condition. It's also a good idea to check with your insurance provider to confirm if a referral is needed.

For your initial consultation, please bring a referral letter from your physician or GP if required. Here’s a checklist to help you prepare:

• Driver’s License or valid ID
• Insurance information
• Referral letter (if needed)
• Relevant reports, X-rays, MRIs, CT scans, etc..
• List of medications (if applicable)

We also recommend bringing a written list of questions to ensure you don’t forget to ask anything during your visit.

Dr Coughlan operates at 2 different hospitals, including:

• Mater Private Hospital South Brisbane

• Brisbane Private Hospital

Office hours are Monday to Friday 8:30 am - 4:30 pm.

Yes.

Most surgical procedures performed by Dr. Coughlan are eligible for a health fund rebate. If surgery is recommended after your consultation, you will be provided with an item number for the procedure. You can then contact your health fund to confirm your coverage.

Your doctor will guide you on the type and duration of post-treatment exercises to follow. You may also be referred to a physical therapist to assist with strengthening and range-of-motion exercises after surgery.

The recovery period after surgery varies depending on the type of procedure. In most cases, taking two weeks off work is recommended, followed by a gradual return to light duties. Dr Coughlan will provide detailed instructions tailored to support your recovery.

It is recommended to wait at least one week before driving after surgery, as anesthesia and the procedure itself can impact judgment and reflexes during this time. Dr Coughlan will give you more specific guidance based on your individual condition."

Your medical file is treated with the highest respect for your privacy and in compliance with current Privacy Legislation. Our staff adhere to strict confidentiality standards as part of their employment, ensuring your medical records remain secure. We will not release any information from your file without your consent.

A 24-hour point of contact will be available for any concerns you may have. Contact details will be provided to you after your treatment.

The non-surgical treatment options consist of rest, medications such as analgesics and antibiotics, injections, and physical or occupational therapy.

Regaining full range of motion, strength, and flexibility after surgery typically requires time. This is where pre-operative exercise, education, and post-operative physical therapy programs play a crucial role. They help ensure that you are both physically and emotionally prepared for the surgery and that you can maximize your recovery afterward.

Like any surgery, there are risks involved, including reactions to anesthesia, bleeding, infection, stiffness, and nerve damage. Your doctor will review the specific risks related to your procedure with you.

The timeline for returning to daily activities varies based on the type of procedure performed, ranging from a few days to several months. Resuming all activities, including sports and exercise, may take up to four to six months. Your doctor will provide guidance based on your individual health condition.

If you choose not to undergo orthopedic surgery for your condition, potential complications may include persistent pain, reduced joint motion, weakness in the joint, numbness, and an increased risk of developing arthritis earlier than expected.

The most frequently encountered orthopedic injuries include sprains and strains, fractures, and dislocations. These injuries can occur during indoor or outdoor sports or while exercising. Sports injuries often result from accidents, inadequate training, improper use of protective equipment, or insufficient warm-up and stretching exercises.

• Referral letter
• Any X-rays, scans, or test results
• A list of medications and their dosages
• Details of any relevant previous surgeries
• A list of any allergies
• Private insurance details (insurer name and membership number)
• Workers' compensation information (insurer and claim number), if applicable

Full payment is expected at the time of your consultation. Please check with each doctor's practice for available payment methods.

Dr. Coughlan will explain the risks and benefits associated with any surgical procedure. If you have specific questions about your surgery, it’s important to have them addressed well in advance. Please contact the surgeon's office if you have questions prior to your surgery.

No, you will need to follow the appropriate channels at that public hospital. You cannot schedule a public appointment through the surgeon’s private practice. Appointments can only be made for private consultations. If you wish to make an appointment at the public hospital, please refrain from calling the private office, as they will not be able to assist you.