Information for Patients
Patient resources
Practical information to help you prepare for consultations, understand your care pathway, and know what to expect before and after surgery.
Your first visit
Preparing for your appointment
- 01
A current referral from your GP or specialist (required for Medicare rebates).
- 02
A complete list of current medications, including doses and any supplements.
- 03
Relevant imaging, pathology results, and prior procedure reports.
- 04
Details of any allergies, medical conditions, and previous surgeries.
- 05
Your Medicare card, private health insurance details, and any DVA or WorkCover information.
Common questions
What patients ask
These are general answers. Your specific circumstances will be discussed in detail at your consultation.
- Initial consultations typically last 30–45 minutes. This allows time for a thorough review of your history, physical examination, and a detailed discussion of your diagnosis and treatment options.
- Not every patient requires surgery. Dr Tiang will discuss all appropriate options — including non-operative management — and the rationale for each recommendation.
- Dr Tiang operates at Northern Hospital and Austin Hospital (public), and at John Fawkner, Warringal, Northern, and Western Private Hospitals. Consulting rooms are at 163 Keilor Road, Essendon.
- You will receive written bowel preparation instructions prior to your procedure. These vary depending on your medical history and the time of your appointment. Please follow them closely and contact the rooms if you have questions.
- Post-operative care is tailored to the procedure performed. You will receive written instructions covering wound care, activity levels, diet, and follow-up appointments. Most patients are reviewed within two weeks of discharge.
Recovery & follow-up
After your procedure
Recovery is a partnership between surgeon and patient.
Following your procedure, you will receive detailed discharge instructions specific to your operation. These will cover wound care, activity restrictions, dietary advice, and medication.
A follow-up appointment is usually scheduled within 1–2 weeks of discharge. If pathology was sent, results are typically discussed at this visit. Urgent results are communicated earlier.
If you experience unexpected symptoms — such as increasing pain, fever, wound redness, or heavy bleeding — contact the practice or your hospital directly.
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Request a consultation
A valid referral is required. Contact the practice to arrange an appointment at a convenient location.
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