Meeting a surgeon for the first time can feel daunting, particularly when symptoms are new, persistent or concerning. Dr Nina-Marie King understands this and takes care to ensure every patient feels heard and comfortable throughout the consultation process​.

Your initial visit begins with a detailed clinical history, during which Dr King will discuss your presenting symptoms alongside your relevant medical background and any pertinent family history. This is typically followed by a physical examination. Dr King will explain each step as it is performed, ensuring you feel informed and at ease throughout. She will then discuss her clinical impression with you, which may include a likely diagnosis, recommendations for further investigations or an outline of appropriate treatment options.

Dr King warmly encourages patients to bring a family member or support person to their appointment. Many find it reassuring and helpful to have someone else present, particularly when a significant amount of clinical information is being discussed.

We kindly ask patients to arrive 10–15 minutes before their scheduled appointment, allowing sufficient time for any necessary paperwork to be completed. As some patients present with complex medical concerns requiring extra time and care, occasional delays to scheduled appointments are sometimes unavoidable. We sincerely appreciate your patience and understanding.

A little preparation can make your consultation far more productive. Where possible, please bring:

• Your referral letter from your GP or another specialist, which is required for Medicare rebates to apply and gives the surgeon useful background
• A list of current medications, including doses, or the medications themselves if that's easier
• Results of any relevant tests, such as blood tests, ultrasounds, CT scans, endoscopy or colonoscopy reports, or biopsy results
• Your Medicare card and private health insurance details
• A list of questions or concerns you'd like addressed: it's easy to forget things once you're in the room, so writing them down beforehand really helps
• A brief symptom diary, if relevant, noting when symptoms occur and any patterns you've noticed
• If you wear glasses or hearing aids, please bring these too

Let the practice know in advance if you require an interpreter or have any accessibility needs

Depending on your clinical presentation, Dr King may recommend further investigations to clarify the diagnosis and/or guide treatment planning.
 
Investigations commonly used in general and upper GI surgery include:

• Endoscopy (gastroscopy): to examine the oesophagus, stomach, and upper small bowel
• Colonoscopy: to examine the large bowel
• Imaging studies: such as ultrasound, CT, or MRI
• Blood tests: including routine pre-operative screening
• Specialised studies: such as pH monitoring or manometry, for reflux and swallowing disorders

These investigations can generally be arranged promptly and results are reviewed at a follow-up appointment. Any urgent findings will be communicated to you without delay.