Construction work
at Austin Hospital

Read important information for patients
with appointments at Austin Hospital >

In-person appointments

If your appointment is in person, you’ll come to the hospital on the scheduled day. This is the most common type of appointment and may include an examination or tests. Here’s what you need to know before you arrive.

What to bring

  • Medicare card, pension card or any concession card 
  • Your appointment confirmation letter
  • Your GP's name, address and phone number
  • List of your current medications and supplements
  • Any medication or supplements you may need during your visit
  • Something to do while you wait, such as a book, magazine or iPad
  • Your walking aid (like a walking stick or frame). Even if you don't use it all the time, it's good to bring it because the flooring and walkways will be different to what’s at home.   
  • Your glasses and hearing aids. These will assist you in what can be a noisy environment.
  • Shoes that are supportive, have non-slip soles, and cover your heel.  

Orthopaedics appointments

If you are attending an orthopaedics appointment at the Monday or Thursday Clinic in 4 East (Green or Orange) at Heidelberg Repatriation Hospital, arrive 30 to 60 minutes before your appointment. This will allow time to complete your scans.

Getting here and parking

Check your clinic location before you travel.

Austin Hospital

Find out about transport and parking for Austin Hospital.

Heidelberg Repatriation Hospital

Find out about transport and parking for Heidelberg Repatriation Hospital.

Construction notice

Construction work is underway and there are changes to how you park, enter and move around Austin Hospital. Find out more about the construction work.

Special advice for patients with a weakened immune system or lung conditions

If you have a chronic lung condition or a weakened immune system, there may be more dust within construction areas. If you have these health conditions, we recommend you wear a mask when near construction areas. If you have concerns, talk to your healthcare team.

 

When you arrive at Specialist Clinics

Arrive early? 

If you arrive early, wait until 30 minutes before your appointment time before you check-in.

Go for a walk or grab a cup of coffee then come back and check-in. This helps reduce overcrowding in the clinic waiting room and ensures everyone gets a seat.

Register your arrival

  • Use a self check-in machine to register your arrival. 
  • Swipe your Medicare or Department of Veteran Affair (DVA) card to check-in.
  • Take your ticket and find a seat in the waiting room

Ask our volunteers or reception staff for help if needed.

Take your ticket and get a seat

  • Your ticket shows your clinic location and a number.
  • Wait for your number to be displayed on the screen (or to be called in Clinic E).
  • If you miss your number on the screen, staff will know you've arrived and come to collect you.
  • When your number is displayed or called, go to the room or area shown on your ticket.

Preventing falls

Being in an unfamiliar environment may increase your risk of accidentally falling over by tripping/stumbling or slipping.  We will make sure you can find your way around by providing good signage and uncluttered walkways, and our staff may offer help when walking to and from your appointment.  

Things to consider: 

  • If you have trouble walking and might need a wheelchair, please call the clinic before your appointment to check if one is available.
  • Make sure you leave early enough so you don’t have to rush. Give yourself plenty of time to get to your appointment.It can help to have a friend or family member drop you off close to the clinic and help you find your way inside
  • Find out where the toilets and exits are
  • Stay hydrated and be aware of your surroundings
  • Let staff know if you notice any hazards, such as spills or obstacles or if you are feeling tired or dizzy.

How long you might need to wait

  • Please allow up to two hours for your appointment.
  • You’ll be given a specific arrival time, but delays can happen if another patient needs extra care or if staff are called to an emergency
  • Our aim is for you to be seen within 20 minutes of your arrival time. If delays are expected, staff will keep you informed.

Contact us

Specialist Clinics

Contact Specialist Clinics

Phone: 03 9496 2444

Phone: 1800 134 864 (toll free for regional patients)

Phone: 131 450 (free telephone interpreter service)

Open hours

Specialist Clinics is open 8.00 am to 4.30 pm, from Monday to Friday.

Our Call Centre is open 8.00 am to 5.30 pm.

We're closed weekends and public holidays.