How do I make an Appointment?

 

Simply call us at (03) 95989720 from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, Monday through Friday or you can request an appointment online using this form. Dr Samuel Joseph consults in the bayside area of Melbourne at Linacre Private Hospital (Hampton) and at the Frankston Private Hospital (Frankston).

 

What should I bring to my first consultation? 

 

For your initial consultation you will need to bring the following:

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• Referral letter from GP, family physician or other doctor

• Medicare card, DVA card, pension card

• Have your Private Medical Insurance information with you

• Reports, X-rays, MRIs, CT scans etc. and any other relevant information

• The New Patient Form filled if you haven't already sent it through email. Click here to download the form. 

 

We encourage you to come to your initial consultation with a written list of questions to ensure you don’t forget to ask them when you are seeing Dr Samuel Joseph.

 

How long does it take to get an appointment with Dr Joseph?

 

Generally one to two weeks, however Dr Samuel Joseph will endeavour to fit in urgent patients sooner with a call from their GP.

 

Can I come to get a second opinion?

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Yes, you can make an appointment to get a second opinion. Dr Samuel Joseph regularly sees patients who have been seen by other surgeons. If you've had a previous surgery, bring all the relevant information as it will be useful. 

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What is the cost of surgery?

 

The cost of surgery includes the fees of several Providers:

The hospital (theatre cost and bed cost), your surgeon (Dr Samuel Joseph), the anaesthetist and the assistant. The cost of blood tests, x-rays, implants and prosthesis are also considered part of the total bill.

Patients who have private health insurance can have their surgery with the majority of the costs covered by their health fund. The out of pocket fee depends on how much your health insurance company is willing to reimburse you. This matter will be discussed prior to surgery with the practice manager.

If you are covered by WorkCover, TAC or Defence there will be no cost to you for any surgery you may have.

Surgeon’s fees:

We believe in transparent and ethical billing and pricing structure to comply with professional guidelines.

However, due to AOA policies on website regulations, we are unable to list our fees on this page.

Dr Joseph’s fees are based on the recommended Australian Medical Association (AMA) schedule.

All orthopaedic surgeries are covered by Medicare item numbers which are associated with rebates. Unfortunately these rebates have not changed much since 1985 which explains the gap with surgeons’ fees. The majority of this gap is covered by insurance companies but the exact amount depends on your Health Fund and your level of cover.

 

Can Dr Joseph be contacted if I have a question or a concern about my surgery?

 

Dr Samuel Joseph can be contacted from 9am to 5pm from Monday to Friday on 03 95989720. Dr Samuel Joseph will discuss with you at your appointment how he can be contacted outside of office hours should you have any concern about your surgery.

 

How long will I be in hospital for?

 

For a knee arthroscopy you will go home on the same day.

For Knee Reconstructive Surgery, you will usually stay 1 or 2 days in hospital.

For Hip and Knee Replacement, you will usually stay between 3 to 6 days in hospital.

 

How long do I need time off work after the surgery?

 

The post-operative recovery period varies depending on the particular surgery. Generally it is recommended that patients take two weeks off work or school to recover from any surgery and to resume light duty following resumption of work. Dr Samuel Joseph will give you specific instructions to follow for a successful recovery.

 

What is to be expected?

 

After surgery, there is a variable amount of pain and swelling, often depending on how much surgery was done. This usually diminishes after several days. It is helpful to keep the leg elevated above your heart and to apply ice regularly.

 

WHAT SHOULD BE REPORTED IMMEDIATELY:

 

Signs and symptoms to report:

• persistent fever

• sudden increase in pain or swelling

• wound redness, drainage, or increased skin temperature around the incision

• increasing numbness

• shortness of breath

Who to call: 

If you have any problems please call the rooms on 03 95989720. If Dr Samuel Joseph can't be reached call your GP or go to the nearest emergency department.

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