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Frequently Asked Questions

Dr Prodger completed his Bachelor of Medicine/Bachelor of Surgery in 2002 at the University of Queensland.   He completed his Advanced Orthopaedic Training in Queensland and obtained Fellowship of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (FRACS) in 2012.  In addition to his Orthopaedic Training he completed a Bachelor of Physiotherapy at the University of Queensland in 1994.

While you do not necessarily require a referral to see Dr Prodger, you will require a valid referral to claim a Medicare rebate for the consultation.  Your referral can be accepted for up to twelve months from the date it was created.  It is then valid for twelve months from the date of your first consultation before you require an updated referral.

Free onsite parking is available at Northern Rivers Orthopaedics.  There is a disabled car space at the front of the building that can be used for those persons with a disabled parking permit or as a drop off point for those with ambulatory difficulties.  There is patient parking at the rear of the surgery.  We ask that patients access the rooms from the front of the building.  If parking at the rear you will need to walk up an inclined driveway.  The driveway does have a purpose built rail for support when walking.  

It is very important that you follow your post-operative instructions carefully.  If you have a concern you may call your General Practitioner (GP) or Dr Prodger in hours or out of hours contact your after hours GP or emergency hospital.  Dr Prodger’s rooms will provide you with advice on what to do in consultation with Dr Prodger.  Symptoms to be concerned about include sudden shortness of breath, chest pain and calf swelling or if your wound becomes very hot, red, or has discharge and if you have a high temperature.  These symptoms may not be anything to worry about, however it is better to be sure.

As Dr Prodger is not an orthopaedic spinal surgeon referrals for Spinal Conditions are not accepted.  If you are unsure of where to be referred for your spinal condition please do not hesitate to contact our reception staff who will be able to provide you with further information.