Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to common questions about appointments, referrals, treatment and recovery with Dr Stuart Ferguson in Wollongong. Patients from across the Illawarra and South Coast are welcome. Consultations are expected to begin in October 2026.
Appointments & Getting Started
Consultations in Wollongong are expected to begin in October 2026. Patients from across the Illawarra and South Coast are welcome. Use the contact form on this website to register your interest or request an appointment. Phone and street details will be published closer to opening.
A referral from your GP or another specialist is generally required for a specialist orthopaedic consultation and to access Medicare rebates. If you are unsure, include that question in the contact form.
Please bring your referral, Medicare card, any relevant imaging (X-rays, MRI or ultrasound) and reports, a list of current medications, and details of your private health insurance if applicable.
Initial consultations are typically longer to allow time for a thorough assessment and discussion of treatment options. Follow-up appointments are usually shorter.
Yes. Consultations are in Wollongong, and patients travel from across the Illawarra and South Coast, including Thirroul and the northern suburbs, Shellharbour, Kiama and the Shoalhaven.
Treatment & Surgery
Not necessarily. Many orthopaedic conditions can be managed without surgery. Dr Ferguson will discuss non-surgical and surgical options based on your diagnosis, symptoms and goals.
Not always. If you already have X-rays, MRI or ultrasound scans, please bring them to your consultation. Additional imaging can be arranged if required.
Surgery is performed at accredited hospitals and day surgery facilities. The most appropriate setting depends on the procedure and your individual circumstances.
Recovery varies depending on the procedure and the individual. Dr Ferguson will discuss expected timeframes, rehabilitation and return to activity during your consultation.
Fees & Billing
There is a fee for first appointments and a lower fee for shorter review visits. Fees follow Australian Medical Association guidelines, with a reduced rate for pensioner concession and Health Care Card holders. See the fees and billing page for payment options and how Medicare rebates work.
Yes, when you have a valid referral. A Medicare rebate applies to eligible consultations, and you will be responsible for any gap payment.
For planned surgery you receive a known-gap quote. Medicare and your health fund pay most of the surgeon's account, with a maximum out-of-pocket surgeon's fee of $500, including two post-operative visits. Hospital, anaesthetist, imaging and pharmacy charges are separate. Cover still depends on your policy.
Aftercare & Follow-Up
Some patients benefit from therapy before or after surgery, while others may not require it. Recommendations are tailored to your condition and recovery plan.
Seek urgent medical attention for severe pain, sudden loss of movement or sensation, signs of infection, or if you have concerns after an injury or procedure that cannot wait for a routine appointment.
Follow-up appointments can be arranged through the contact form. If you have post-operative concerns that cannot wait, seek urgent medical care.