Specialty - Orthopaedic
Overview
Orthopaedics covers the diagnosis and treatment of disorders of bones, joints and muscles. Orthopaedic surgeons have special skills in the surgical treatment of these conditions.
Although orthopaedic Surgeons may perform surgery to restore function lost as a result of injury or disease of bones, joints, muscles, tendons, ligaments, nerves, or skin, they are involved in all aspects of health care pertaining to the musculoskeletal system. They employ medical, physical and rehabilitative methods as well as surgical methods.
Where joints have become destroyed by disease, or worn out, orthopaedic surgeons can often replace these joints with artificial ones. This results in marked relief from pain and an increase in mobility and enjoyment of life for patients.
Patient Expectations
If your problem is not acute, your GP/Referrer will request an appointment in the outpatient clinic if they are concerned about your condition and feel that you require a specialist opinion. One of our Specialists will review the referral letter and assign a priority based on the information provided.
Very urgent cases are usually seen within a few weeks, but other cases may have to wait a longer time. However each month we receive more referrals than can be actually seen. Information regarding the waiting times can be obtained by selecting the link under “Waiting Times” below.
The specialist may organise an investigation/tests rather than arranging a clinic appointment so that further information can be obtained about your condition. This may result in either an appointment or a letter to your GP/Referrer with recommendations regarding your condition.
Consultants
Tauranga
| Mr R Keddell |
Mr C Dawe |
Mr B Thorn |
Mr D Muir |
| Mr I Galley |
Mr R Morbey |
Mr A MacDiarmid |
Mr D Ardern |
| Mr A Stokes |
Mr A Cook |
Mr A Vane |
Mr V Poutawera |
Whakatane
| Mr G Rossett |
Mr M Meiring |
Mr N Giles |
Dr J Hicks |
Referral / First Specialist Assessment
A threshold for FSA referral acceptance has been set to assist with MOH waiting
time compliance.
Please refer to the Orthopaedic waiting times link for further information.
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The National Access Criteria (Bay of Plenty Variation) for First Assessment (ACA) are available to view:
Orthopaedic ACA
Treatment List
A threshold for Treatment List acceptance has been set to assist with MOH
waiting time compliance. Please refer to the Orthopaedic waiting times link for
further information.
Waiting Times
Contact Details
Postal: Referral Receipt Centre, BOPDHB, Private Bag 12024, Tauranga 3142
Fax: 07 578 9571
Phone: 0800 333 477