Timely access to private hospital care — without private health insurance
At Sea Change, in addition to performing a range of weight loss surgeries, we offer self-funded general surgical procedures for patients who do not have private health insurance or are underinsured and would prefer not to wait in the public hospital system.
This option allows you to undergo elective surgery in a private hospital by paying for the procedure — with clear, transparent costs and significantly reduced waiting times.
What Is Self-Funded Surgery?
Self-funded surgery means you choose to cover the cost of your procedure yourself rather than relying on private health insurance.
This provides access to:
- Prompt consultation with a specialist surgeon
- Private hospital facilities
- Timely scheduling of your procedure
- Continuity of care with your chosen surgeon
You remain in control of your treatment timeline.
Why Consider Self-Funded Surgery?
Prompt Specialist Assessment
Public outpatient clinics can involve extended waiting periods before you are assessed by a surgeon.
With self-funded care:
- You are seen in our clinic promptly
- Investigations can be arranged without unnecessary delay
- A clear management plan is developed early
Earlier assessment often leads to earlier treatment, more timely diagnosis, and faster resolution of symptoms.
Avoid Public Hospital Waiting Lists
Elective general surgical procedures in the public system may involve lengthy delays.
Self-funded surgery allows:
- Earlier access to theatre
- Reduced waiting times
- Treatment scheduled at a mutually convenient time
If you are experiencing ongoing abdominal pain, hernia discomfort, digestive symptoms, or concerning skin lesions, timely treatment can significantly improve comfort and quality of life.
Experienced Specialist Care
Your procedure is performed by a highly trained specialist general surgeon with many years of experience.
Private hospital treatment offers:
- Dedicated specialist-led care
- Modern operating facilities
- Experienced anaesthetic and theatre teams
- Personalised follow-up
You receive continuity of care from consultation through to post-operative review.
Procedures Available for Self-Funding
Examples of general surgical procedures available under this model include:
- Gastroscopy
- Colonoscopy
- Laparoscopic cholecystectomy (gallbladder removal)
- Laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair
- Umbilical hernia repair
- Excision of skin lesions
Each patient is individually assessed to ensure surgery is clinically appropriate and safe.
Transparent Costs and Medicare Rebates
Before proceeding, you will receive a clear written breakdown of expected costs. These typically include:
- Surgeon’s fee
- Anaesthetist’s fee
- Assistant fee
- Hospital charges
Importantly, Medicare rebates apply to the medical fees charged by doctors involved in your care, including surgeon, anaesthetist and assistant fees where eligible. This helps reduce your overall out-of-pocket expense.
Hospital fees are not covered by Medicare and are payable directly to the hospital.
We believe in clarity and informed decision-making — you will understand your expected costs before committing to surgery.
Who Is This Suitable For?
Self-funded surgery may suit patients who:
- Do not have private health insurance
- Have exclusions or long waiting periods
- Are underinsured (for example, patients who have “extras only” coverage)
- Wish to avoid prolonged public hospital waiting times
- Prefer private hospital treatment
We are happy to discuss your individual situation and guide you through the process.
Take the Next Step
If you require a general surgical procedure and would like to explore a self-funded option, contact our clinic to arrange a consultation.
We’ll be here offering timely treatment, experienced specialist care and private hospital access without the need for private health insurance.
