Frequently asked questions

When do Wellington consultations begin?

Contact the clinic now about a referral or a suitable appointment; the team can advise on the next steps.

Do I need a referral, or can I refer myself?

For appointments funded by ACC or private health insurance, you’ll need a referral from your GP, physiotherapist or another clinician. If you’re funding the appointment yourself, without ACC or insurance funding, please contact the clinic to discuss whether a self-referral is suitable.

I previously saw Andy in Whanganui. Can he still help?

Andy may be able to help arrange a referral closer to home. Patients from Whanganui can also enquire about appropriate hip or knee care in Wellington from January 2027. Appointments are considered individually, subject to the usual referral and funding requirements. See the information for Whanganui patients.

Does Andy Thompson see urgent injuries?

No. This clinic is not an urgent or emergency service.

Can I change my appointment?

If you need to change your appointment, please email the clinic or phone 04 242 0909. Let us know as soon as you can so we can arrange another time.

What should I bring?

Bring medication details, imaging information, any referral letters and ACC or insurance details where relevant. See the appointment preparation checklist.

Can ACC or insurance cover my appointment?

The clinic can help arrange appointments for ACC-covered hip and knee injuries. There is no surcharge for consultations funded by ACC. Cover for your appointment or treatment depends on your claim or insurance policy and any approval required; funding is not guaranteed. See ACC and funding information.

What if I already have X-rays or scans?

Please tell the clinic where and when imaging was performed so reports or images can be requested if needed. After reviewing your referral, Andy may arrange relevant X-rays or scans before your appointment. The radiology provider may contact you directly to book these.

What happens after the appointment?

Andy will explain what may be causing your symptoms and discuss the treatment options. This may include non-operative management, further investigation, monitoring or surgery where clinically appropriate.

How should I provide clinical information?

Email is the preferred way to send referral letters, clinical information and supporting documents. Show the protected referral email, or see the HealthLink and Specialist Referrals routes on the same page. The general enquiry form is for appointment and administrative questions.

Where does Andy consult?

From January 2027, Andy will consult at Level G, Bowen Specialist Centre, 98 Churchill Drive, Crofton Downs, Wellington 6035, within Wellington Orthopaedic & Sports Surgeons (WOSS). See contact and location details.

Where can I find the patient handouts?

The patient information guides cover joint replacement, meniscal tears, ACL injuries and kneecap dislocation or instability. The guides provide general information; please bring any questions about your own care to your consultation.

How do I pay for my treatment?

For information about ACC, insurance and self-funded payments, see paying for treatment.

Where do I find hospital forms and preparation information?

If your surgery has been booked or is being arranged, use the information for the hospital named in your booking. See preparing for surgery for hospital pre-admission questionnaires, preparation and payment links.

What happens after surgery?

The clinic will book your follow-up appointments. If you need to change one, please email the clinic or phone 04 242 0909. See after your surgery for follow-up information, wound concerns and when to seek urgent help. Follow the individual discharge instructions from your surgical and hospital team.

Who do I contact if symptoms are urgent?

For emergencies call 111. For urgent new or worsening symptoms contact your GP, urgent care or your nearest emergency department.

What is an ARTP, and does every operation need one?

ARTP stands for Assessment Report and Treatment Plan. It is used to ask ACC to approve funding for surgery when prior approval is needed. Not every operation requires an ARTP; Andy will explain whether one is needed for your surgery.

What happens after the ARTP is sent to ACC?

ACC notifies both you and Andy of its decision. If you haven’t heard from ACC and would like an update, please contact ACC directly. The clinic cannot check ACC’s processing status.

If ACC needs more information, it usually contacts the relevant healthcare provider directly. If it asks Andy for further information, he will provide it. You do not need to take action unless ACC asks you to.

What if ACC declines funding for surgery?

Options may include:

• Asking ACC about challenging its decision or requesting an independent review.
• Paying for treatment yourself.
• Checking whether private health insurance may cover the treatment, depending on your policy and any approval required.

If these options are not viable, referral to a public hospital may be appropriate. Access depends on eligibility, clinical assessment and prioritisation.

For questions about ACC’s decision or the review process, please contact ACC using the details in your decision letter. If you decide to proceed with another funding option, the clinic can help arrange an appointment once that funding is confirmed.