Frequently Ask Questions
What services does Dr Lorcan McGonagle provide in Geraldton?
ExpandDr McGonagle treats musculoskeletal problems and provides non-operative care and surgery for hips, knees, shoulders, hands, wrists, feet and ankles. Common operations include total knee replacement, total hip replacement, knee meniscal repair, knee anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction, reverse shoulder replacement, shoulder
rotator cuff repair.
How do I book an appointment?
ExpandBook an Appointment online via HealthEngine or call the clinic on 08 9921 4847 to schedule a consultation with Dr McGonagle.
Do I need a GP referral to see Dr McGonagle?
ExpandYes. Please bring a GP referral to your appointment; check with the clinic if you’re unsure about referral requirements before booking.
Do you accept private health insurance, and how is billing handled?
ExpandYes. Privately insured and uninsured patients are welcome. This is a private billing practice, so there will be a fee. Department of Veterans’ Affairs and Worker’s Compensation Claims (WCC) are welcome too. WCC patients please provide a claim number or written acceptance for direct billing; if approval is pending, you will need to pay on the day and claim back from your insurer.
What should I bring to my first appointment?
ExpandBring any imaging (X-rays, MRI), your GP referral, Medicare/private health details and a list of medications to help the surgeon assess your condition.
Where is the clinic located, and what are the opening hours?
ExpandWe’re at Suite 6, St John of God Specialist Centre, 12 Hermitage Street, Geraldton. Office hours Mon–Fri 8.30 am – 4.30 pm; call to confirm availability.
How long will I wait for a consultation or surgery?
ExpandWaiting times vary by procedure and urgency; contact the clinic for current consultation and surgical wait estimates specific to your situation and insurance status.
Do you perform arthroscopy or keyhole surgery?
ExpandYes — arthroscopic (keyhole) procedures on the shoulder and knee are performed routinely. Shoulder arthroscopy may include rotator cuff repair, lateral clavicle excision, subacromial decompression, biceps tenodesis, joint stabilisation. Knee arthroscopy may include ACL reconstruction, meniscus repair, patella stabilisation. Suitability, risks and expected recovery will be discussed at consultation.
What is recovery like after hip or knee replacement?
ExpandPatients mobilise the same day or the day after surgery. Patients can expect to be discharged 2-3 days after surgery. Pain decreases on weekly basis. Most improvement occurs in the first 3 months after surgery, then continues to improve slowly up to a year after surgery.
Can you treat sports injuries and tendon problems in Geraldton?
ExpandYes — common injuries include anterior cruciate ligament tears, meniscal tears, shoulder dislocations, shoulder rotator cuff tendon tears. Book an Appointment to discuss your injury.
Are telehealth consultations available?
ExpandSome follow-up appointments are suitable for telehealth. All new referrals need to be seen in person.
What happens if I don’t have a claim number for surgery?
ExpandIf you don’t have an approved claim, payment will be required on the day of consultation and you can claim back with your insurer afterwards.
What should I expect during my first orthopaedic consultation?
ExpandDr McGonagle will take your history, examine the joint, may order imaging (e.g. x-ray, ultrasound, MRI) and discuss treatment options including conservative care, injections or surgery.
How can I leave feedback or a Google review?
ExpandUse the “Review us on Google” link on the site or contact the clinic directly to provide feedback.