Dr Philip Cumpston

M.B.B.S. (SYD), F.A.N.Z.C.A., F.C.I.C.M., F.F.A.C.E.M., MSc (IT)

Visiting Senior Specialist Anaesthetist

Senior Lecturer, The University of Queensland

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Frequently Answered Questions

The following is a list of questions we have had to answer frequently. If you cannot find the answer to your question here, please use the contact form on this site to get in touch.


How do I pay my Bill?


You should have received instructions for payment of your account at the same time as you received the account. The usual methods for payment are shown here.


I paid the surgeon, why do I have to pay the anaesthetist?



The person who took care of you during your surgery does not work for that surgeon. He or she has an individual contract with you to take care of you for a defined payment. The account you received explains exactly what was done and how much each item of care costs.


How can I provide feedback to the anaesthetist about my experience?


Simply complete the feedback form and the  anaesthetist will receive a copy and respond accordingly.


I want to know more about anaesthesia and anaesthetists. Where can I go?


The Australian Society of Anaesthetists has several pages of information that should answer most of your questions.


What are the risks and potential complications of anaesthesia and surgery?


The Australian Society of Anesthetist provides some answers here.


What billing or insurance information will I receive?


For elective surgery, we will attempt to provide informed financial consent in a timely manner. This means that patients are given an estimate of out of pocket expenses before surgery. The ability to do this depends on timely notification by surgical practices. From time to time, especially in the event of emergency surgery, this may be difficult. In these circumstances, a verbal estimat of out of pocket expenses will be given at the time.


How long will it take to get things settled with the Health Fund (medical insurance company)?


Most of the time the health fund is billed directly for private cases. This maximises the amount paid by the health fund. If there is a gap between the amount reimbursed by the health fund and the amount charged, this will need to be paid by the patient. A separate invoice will be sent. The process can take as long as six weeks from the time of surgery, due to delays in processing of accounts by Medicare Australia.

Why am I getting bills from other physicians?


From time to time, a second opinion or a request for assistance in optimising a patient's medical condition prior to surgery may be made. In these circumstances, the patient will generally be notified and the need discussed at the time.