What do Urological Surgeons do?

A urological surgeon is specialist with expertise in the management of problems relating to the urinary tract and male reproductive organs. The urinary tract includes the kidneys, ureters, bladder and urethra. The male reproductive system includes the testes, prostate, penis, epididymis, and seminal vesicles. Urological issues may include cancer, stones, infection, urinary symptoms and erectile dysfunction.

How do I choose the best Urologist for me?

• Choosing your urologist wisely is very important in the treatment process.

• Choose a urologist with excellent bedside manner, someone who listens, has great communication skills, and get a gauge of overall patient satisfaction.

• Experience: Seek out urologists who have experience treating your particular condition and who are up-to-date on the latest treatment options. Look for urologists have experience in treating conditions similar to yours.

• Post-graduate Fellowship Ttraining: Has your urologist commmitted themselves to excellence by pursuing fellowship training overseas? Do they have additional experience and expertise in a particular procedure or technique? How many cases have they done? What are their complications and surgical results?

• Timely and accurate communication with your GP is imperative.

Do I need a referral letter?

Yes, as a specialist service, we will need a referral from your GP or another doctor. A referral letter contains the details of your problem which requires a Urology specialist opinion. It also contains any relevant information such as your past medical history, allergies and medications.

A referral from your GP specialist or hospital specialist is also required for your account to receive a Medicare rebate. A referral from your GP is typically valid for 12 months.

How soon can I see my specialist?

Our staff will ensure that you are seen promptly once you or your GP requests an appointment. If you have an urgent condition, your referral will be prioritised to be seen as soon as possible.

Do I need private health insurance?

Dr. Ashrafi is happy to see all patients in the consulting rooms and will facilitate complete public or private urological care according to your needs. Uninsured patients can get their surgical treatment at a public hospital without any additional costs.

What do I bring to my appointment?

Referral letter from your GP, Medicare card, Pension/DVA/Health Fund information, blood and urine test results, any medical imaging studies (X–rays, Ultrasound scans, CT scans, MRI scans, bone scans, PET scans), a list of medications, and any relevant correspondence related to your problem.

Can I be seen via Telehealth?

Yes we support Telehealth for urological care. Patients can request to have their consultation via phone or video call. We hope that Telehealth consultation will allow patients with transport issues or those from rural and remote areas to access the urological care they need.

What will the consultation cost?

The cost of the consultation may vary depending on whether the appointment is the initial one or a follow up appointment. You will be given a fee estimate by our team prior to your appointment.

What is robotic surgery?

Robotic surgery allows a surgeon with appropriate experience and expertise to perform complex procedures using small key hole incisions using a sophisticated surgical system. The system we use is the latest da Vinci Xi Surgical System.

What are the benefits of robotic surgery?

Robotic surgery allows for surgery with small incisions, reduced bleeding, improved vision, increased precision leading to reduced pain, shorter hospital stay, faster recovery and earlier return to daily activities.

What are the costs of surgery if I need a procedure?

Our team at Adelaide Urology Care delivers expert state-of-the art surgical care using the latest evidence-based techniques and technologies.

There will be an out-of-pocket cost for most surgical procedures. The cost of the procedure will involve either 1) a private fee, 2) the AMA recommended fees or 3) a health fund fixed gap fee depending on the nature and complexity of the procedure.