Q.  What should I bring with me on the day of my procedure?
A.  Please wear loose, comfortable clothing, with flat soled shoes that are easy to slip on and off. For safety reasons, avoid high heels or shoes with laces. For patients having a colonoscopy, it is advisable (but not necessary) that you bring your own dressing gown. Bring all medications that you are currently taking and any recent blood test results. If you use a CPAP machine, please bring this with you also. Leave your valuables and jewellery at home. We will need your Medicare Card, insurance details, and if you have not already sent it in, your referral. It is a good idea to have something to read to help pass the time. Payment can be made on admission by eftpos, credit card or cash. (Cheques, American Express or Diners Club will not be accepted.)

Q.  Are my medical records kept private and confidential?
A.  Your medical record will be kept in a secure place and the contents of it will not be disclosed to any person not directly involved in your primary care, unless a secondary purpose is related to the primary care purpose.  Examples of disclosure to a secondary source are the disclosure of information to your health fund for billing purposes, or to another health provider involved in your care.  All CEC employees are also required to sign a confidentiality statement as part of the formal employment process.  Medical record information is held in line with the Health Records Act (Victoria).  Any documents that are destroyed are shredded.

Q.  Do I need a referral, and where do I obtain one?
A.  We accept only referred patients and as such please ensure you have your referral letter with you on the day of your procedure. Your general practitioner will issue you with a referral. All results will then be forwarded to your GP for your appropriate ongoing care.

Q.  What does fasting mean?
A.  Fasting means no eating, no drinking, no breath mints, no chewing gum and no brushing teeth.

Q.  May I go home by myself after the procedure?
A.  No. Patients having a gastroscopy or colonoscopy are given a light sedative by the anaesthetist. This sedative takes time to wear off and can remain in your system for up to 24 hours after the procedure. Consequently, in the hours after your procedure, you may experience some disorientation, impaired reflexes, memory issues or reduced concentration. You will therefore need to arrange for someone to collect you from the centre, even if you intend to take public transport home. This is for your own safety and the safety of those around you.

Q.  Is there car parking available for patient drop off and pick up?
A.  There is ample car parking available in the public car park opposite the centre. Please be aware that there is a three hour limit and parking inspectors are frequently in the area. Your nominated pick up person must come into the centre to collect you. For safety reasons, you must not drive a car until the following day of your procedure.

Q.  Can I continue taking my medications as usual before the procedure, or do I need special medication instructions?
A.  You must check with your treating doctor whether you are to cease or continue the medications prescribed for you. It is especially important to obtain instructions on blood thinning medications and diabetic medications. Coburg Endoscopy Centre cannot advise you on these matters. Please consult your treating doctor.

Q.  Do you provide an interpreter service?
A.  Yes. An interpreter can be made available to you upon request, but you will need to notify the centre of this requirement a few days prior to your admission.

Q.  What if I need further blood tests?
A.  St Vincent’s Pathology Service is conveniently located on the premises.