Frequently Asked Questions

What are your business hours?

Our offices are open 0900 to 1700 hours, Monday through Friday (except Public holidays). Appointments can be made by calling +64 09 522 2980 during office hours.

Can x-rays be done in your practice?

Yes, there is an x-ray department at the Medical center very close to our clinic.

Do I need a doctors referral to make an appointment with Dr. Hugh Blackley?

As a Specialist clinic, we encourage patients to have a referral from their General Practitioner, family physician or other doctor to make an appointment with Dr. Hugh Blackley. We also encourage sending notes to your GP after the consultation.

Do I need to have private health insurance?

We see patient with and without private health insurance. If you have health insurance it is best to check the type of policy you have before coming to see Dr Blackley. Those with accepted ACC claims are fully covered, but must bring the claim details with them.

Will my insurance cover all your treatments?

The type of insurance policy will determine the extent of cover, if you bring the details of this we can advise. ACC covers the cost of the consultation and surgery, but may not cover the full cost of the X-ray if needed.

What should I bring with me when I come for an appointment?

• Referral letter from your GP, family physician or other doctor.
• Have your insurance information.
• Copies of operation records, medical records, x-rays, MRIs, CT scans 
  and so on from prior doctor visits.
• If you have seen a physiotherapist, please bring a progress letter from 
  the therapist.
• If you have had surgery elsewhere, please bring a copy of your 
  operation report

What happens when I come for my surgery?

A booking has been made for your operation to take place at Southern Cross Hospital North Harbour Hospital or Ascot Hospital.

You will be sent a Southern Cross North Harbour or Ascot Hospital Patient Admission Pack. Inside this folder are Patient Admission Forms which need to be completed and returned to the hospital approximately 4 days prior to surgery. Enclosed is a postage-paid envelope for you to use. 

Please report to the hospital on date and time provided – make sure you have nothing to eat or drink after times specified in the letter from my orthopaedic rooms. 

For 10 days prior to surgery please do not take the following medications: Anti-inflammatories such as Aspirin, Cartia, Brufen,Voltaren, Synflex, Naprosyn, Nurofen, Diclofenac acid, or any health supplements especially those containing aloe vera, gingko or arnica as they may lead to bleeding. Warfarin needs to be stopped five days before surgery. 

In the time leading up to your operation please take care not to injure yourself, especially the limb being operated on, as any skin sores or skin infections will delay your operation. Please contact your GP or Dr Hugh Blackley if you have any questions relating to this. 

Please take with you any pills or medicines you are currently taking and your x-rays if you have them. 

Please note that there may be additional charges for plaster and dressing changes by your GP or Accident and Medical Clinic post-operatively.