Questions, answered
The questions people ask us most often, answered in one place. If yours is not here, send it through the contact page and we will reply within two business days.
Before you book
Do I need a referral?
No. You can book directly with us, and you do not need a referral from a GP or anyone else.
Which service should I choose?
Choose the service that matches the primary issues you would like to discuss. If you have multiple areas of concern or complex history please book an hour consultation. If you are unsure, book the free ten minute discovery call and we will work it out together. Many people also start with one of our free symptom assessments, which gives you a short written summary to bring to your consultation.
What is the discovery call?
A free ten minute conversation by phone. We hear what is going on, tell you which service fits, and answer any questions about how we work. There is no assessment or advice in the call itself.
What it costs
What does a consultation cost?
Our consultation fees are clearly indicated on our booking pages. Fees are paid at the time of booking. Any testing, treatments or other services recommended will be quoted separately once we know what you need.
Can I claim it on Medicare?
No. IKAO Health is a private clinical service and consultations are not Medicare rebatable. Some private health funds pay a partial rebate on telehealth consultations, so check with your fund before you book.
How much does testing cost?
It depends on what your history and symptoms call for. Testing is recommended in your consultation, quoted before anything is ordered, and paid separately, so there is no bundle to buy up front. Once a test has been ordered on your behalf its cost cannot be refunded.
What to expect
How does telehealth work?
Your consultation is by video or phone, at a time that suits you, from anywhere in Australia. You will need a private space and a stable internet connection. Your practitioner may recommend an in-person examination or a specialist referral if your situation needs one.
What happens in the first consultation?
We go through your symptoms, your health history, any previous results and what you have already tried. We ask you to complete an intake form and send us any recent pathology at least 48 hours prior to your consult to allow our clinicians to prepare for your consultation. From there we explain what may be going on and, where testing is indicated, recommend and quote the tests that would confirm it.
Who will I see?
An Australian registered health practitioner. You are able to select your preferred practitioner at the point of booking.
Testing and results
How is testing arranged?
Blood tests are collected at a pathology collection centre near you. Home test kits, such as stool and microbiome tests, are posted to you with instructions and returned by post.
What happens once my results are in?
We book your follow up consultation and go through everything together. You hear what we found, what it means for you, and what we recommend, and your plan is built from those results. Follow up consultations are booked and paid at the time of booking.
Do you prescribe medication?
Where a prescription is part of your plan, the IKAO clinical team includes Australian registered prescribers. A prescription is never guaranteed, because that decision rests on your clinical picture.
Changes and privacy
What if I need to cancel or reschedule?
Email info@ikaohealth.com. More than 48 hours before your appointment there is no fee. Between 24 and 48 hours a fee of half the appointment cost applies, and inside 24 hours, or if you do not attend, the full fee is forfeited. The full policy is at ikaohealth.com/cancellation-policy.
How is my information handled?
Your health information is stored in our secure practice management system and used only for your care. We do not share it without your consent, except where the law requires. Our privacy policy sets out the detail.
Is IKAO the right place for an urgent problem?
No. We are a planned, investigative service and cannot help with acute, urgent or emergency presentations. If your condition is deteriorating, call 000 or go to your nearest emergency department.
Ask us directly
Send your question through the contact page and a member of our team will reply within two business days.