Delivering state-of-the-art eye care of the highest quality does not come cheap, but the fact we can share facilities between a number of doctors helps us keep costs to a minimum.  As an idea, our brand new ZEISS High Definition OCT scanners from Germany (that take exquisite laser-guided images of the front and back of the eye – necessary for accurate diagnosis and monitoring response to treatment) and our ZEISS IOL Master machines (that take laser-guided measurements of the eye to calculate the power of the artificial lens to insert during cataract surgery) cost well over $100,000 each – and a similar equipment suite is installed at each of our three clinic sites.  Add to that our specialised ophthalmic microscopes, various lasers and other imaging devices, specialised software, consumables such as single use procedure packs and instruments, and the usual costs of running a business with over 20 staff, it’s no wonder ophthalmology has the second highest overheads in Medicine.

At Outlook Eye Specialists, we can assure you that our fees are highly competitive, particularly considering the 15 years of study after finishing high school plus years of additional subspecialist training overseas to acquire the skills to safely perform these delicate procedures.  Those charging higher fees elsewhere are not providing anything more than our top-quality personalised standard of care for the extra cost.

We understand that many of our patients have limited finances, which is why a number of our doctors also work at Gold Coast University (public) Hospital so, between us, our Team provides care to anyone in need. There, they also teach the next generation of ophthalmologists.

Doctors’ fees for surgery may vary depending on the complexity of the case.  Private health insurance typically covers the facility fee (the amount charged by the Day Surgery or Hospital) and contributes to the surgeon’s fee.  The ‘surgeon’s fee’ includes the costs of running the practice, paying for state-of-the-art medical equipment, and the wages of the many clinical and support staff.  The anaesthetist may charge an additional fee.

Like general insurance policies, there are significant differences in the scope of coverage and the amounts companies will pay in the event of a claim.  Some funds may be great for, say, hip replacement surgery but do not contribute much for eye surgery (and vice versa).  Understandably, cheaper policies typically provide lower benefits.  We are happy to provide a no-obligation quote, and encourage patients to clarify the anticipated ‘out-of-pocket’ costs with their fund prior to surgery.