Question 1

What conditions do you deal with?

Accepted Answer

I am a consultant in orthopaedic surgery with a special interest in foot and ankle problems. I generally deal with foot and ankle conditions as listed on the services page.

Question 2

How can I make an appointment?

Accepted Answer

You can make an appointment by contacting one of the locations referred to or by contacting my secretary directly via the details provided on the contact page.    If you want additional information prior to making an appointment please feel free to contact us.

Question 3

Where do consultations take place?

Accepted Answer

Ulster Independent Clinic 245 Stranmillis Road Belfast BT9 5JH   Outpatient Appointments: 02890687444 Website: www.ulsterindependentclinic.com   Orthoderm Clinic  2 Ballynahinch Road Hillsborough BT26 6AR   Outpatient Appointments: 02892680940 Website: www.orthodermclinic.com

Question 4

What insurance companies do you work with?

Accepted Answer

I am recognised by the following major private health insurers and bill within their fee guidelines: BUPA; AVIVA; AXA PPP; WPA; CIGNA; Benenden. I am also happy to see patients from the following insurers, however please check with my secretary before consultation to discuss your level of cover and any surcharges: H3; Laya; VHI; Alliance.

Question 5

Do I need a GP referral before making an appointment?

Accepted Answer

It is not necessary to have a GP referral. However; your insurance company may require that you do have one before they agree to cover the costs of a consultation.   It is often helpful to have up to date information in a letter from your GP about your past medical history, other medical conditions and any medications which you may be on.

Question 6

How long will my appointment be?

Accepted Answer

I allow ample time for both new and follow up appointments.   Generally new patient consultations are 20 minutes, and review consultations are 10 minutes.    However; the actual length of a consultation will vary according to the complexity of each individual case. Should investigations be necessary they might be organised on the same day or at a later date.

Question 7

How is surgery organised?

Accepted Answer

Should any surgery be necessary, a mutually convenient time will be arranged based on the nature of the operation, the necessary rehabilitation and the recovery time required.
 Insured patients need to obtain an authorisation number from their insurance company prior to surgery. The authorisation number is based on the OPCS code for your surgical procedure. This will be given to you by Mr Henderson or his secretary before your operation.

Question 8

If I undergo surgery how long will I be in hospital?

Accepted Answer

Some operations are done as a day case while others require a short stay in hospital.   Although insurers and hospitals will place an expected length of stay on any procedure, it is in general better to keep any inpatient time to a minimum.   You will be discharged as soon as you are comfortable and safely mobile.

Question 9

Will I need any painkillers?

Accepted Answer

Pain killing and anti-inflammatory drugs play an important part in your rehabilitation following surgery.   They help to control pain and swelling, enabling you to carry out your exercises and increase mobility. You will be provided with a supply of medication to take away after your operation.

Question 10

Which physiotherapist should I see?

Accepted Answer

I work closely with a number of excellent physiotherapists and will discuss with you the most suitable.   Most physiotherapists are recognised by all the major insurers. You will need to check your policy to see whether or not physiotherapy is included. The number and frequency of sessions required will be individually tailored to, and guided by your progress.

Question 11

What follow up will I need?

Accepted Answer

The number of further consultations you need will depend on the operation you have had and how closely I need to monitor your progress. In general I aim to continue to see you until you have fully recovered from any procedure.

FAQ