Dr Carlos Lijo — Orthopaedic Spine Surgeon
Fees

No surprises. Ever.

You will always know your out-of-pocket cost before treatment — in writing, before you decide.

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$500

Known-gap surgery

A gap of AUD 500 for surgical procedures under the known-gap scheme with participating health funds. The amount varies with your level of cover and may change without notice.

$0

First 3 post-op reviews

Your first three reviews after surgery are bulk-billed, where they relate to the condition treated. Your recovery is followed through at no extra cost.

100%

Quoted up front

Written informed financial consent before any procedure — you decide with the full picture in hand.

Common questions

Fees, explained plainly

What does "known gap" actually mean?
With participating health funds, your fund and Medicare cover most of the surgical fee and your out-of-pocket contribution — the "gap" — is AUD 500. The known-gap amount varies according to your health insurance and level of cover, and may change without prior notice. Whatever it is for you, you'll know the exact figure in writing before consenting to surgery.
Are follow-up appointments after surgery really free?
Your first three reviews after your surgery are bulk-billed, provided they relate to the condition treated surgically — so your recovery is followed through at no out-of-pocket cost. From the fourth review onwards, or if the appointment is about something other than the condition treated, the consultation is charged at the usual rate.
Are there other fees besides Dr Lijo's?
Yes — surgical procedures commonly also involve fees from a surgical assistant and an anaesthetist, and there may be hospital charges depending on your health fund and excess. Before any procedure, you will be shown how to gather every fee involved, so you can see the complete cost picture before you decide.
What will my initial consultation cost?
Consultation fees and applicable Medicare rebates are confirmed when you book. A valid GP or specialist referral ensures you can claim your Medicare rebate.
Do I need a referral?
A current referral from your GP or another specialist is required to claim Medicare rebates for specialist consultations. Your GP can address it to Dr Carlos Lijo and send it to referrals@drlijospine.com.au.

The fine print

  • Bulk-billed post-operative reviews — the first three reviews following your surgical procedure are bulk-billed, provided they relate to the pathology treated surgically. From the fourth review onwards, or where the reason for the appointment is a condition other than the one treated surgically, the consultation is charged as usual.
  • Known-gap scheme — the AUD 500 known gap applies to surgical procedures with participating health funds. It varies according to your health insurance and may change without prior notice. Your individual out-of-pocket cost is always confirmed in writing before you consent.
  • Other providers — surgical assistant, anaesthetist and hospital fees are billed separately and are not covered by the known-gap arrangement.

Questions about your specific costs?

Every quote is prepared individually — get in touch and we'll walk you through it.