Your Journey

How We Work Together

Four steps from referral to your first appointment.

Book an Appointment

Email your doctor's referral to info@ssws.xestro.com. Your referral will be triaged by Dr Kamalaraj based on medical urgency.

💡 Tip: The more information in your referral (history, blood results, scan reports), the more accurate the triage.

WorkCover patients — please let staff know at the time of booking to avoid delays.

Learn About Us

All patients should read our practice policies, which will be emailed to you ahead of your appointment along with other important information for a smooth first visit.

Our Privacy Policy is available on our website.

During Your Appointment

Your first appointment typically takes 30–45 minutes. We suggest bringing a family member or companion to help listen — it can be a lot of information at once.

💡 Tip: Bring paper and pen. Feel free to take notes during the consultation.

After Your Appointment

Payment is due at the time of your appointment (or before, for Telehealth). Cash is not accepted. Please keep all scripts, request forms, and paperwork — there may be a fee for replacements.

Further information can often be found at Arthritis Australia.

The Consultation Process

What Happens at Your Appointment

A structured, thorough approach to diagnosing and managing your condition.

📝

History

Dr Kamalaraj takes a comprehensive history of your rheumatological problems and goals for management.

🔍

Examination

A thorough physical examination is performed based on your symptoms. Wear loose, comfortable clothing.

🧪

Investigations

Relevant investigations are reviewed and further testing (blood tests, scans) arranged as appropriate.

🎯

Diagnosis

Using your history, examination, and test results, Dr Kamalaraj works towards a diagnosis — which is discussed openly with you.

🗺️

Management

A management plan is developed based on your individual circumstances, goals, and the best available evidence.

🔄

Review

Many rheumatic conditions are chronic and require ongoing management. You will be monitored periodically to assess your condition and treatment response.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions from new patients. If yours isn't here, call us on (02) 4607 2526.

What should I bring to my appointment?

Medicare card, DVA gold card, and any WorkCover pre-approval paperwork
Referral letter — you should have already sent this, but a paper backup helps
Medication list — or bring the actual bottles/patches/inhalers
Blood test results and scan reports — or note the name of the pathology/radiology provider
A friend or family member to help remember what was discussed
Paper and pen to take notes

What should I wear?

Loose clothing — a T-shirt/blouse and shorts or a skirt. You may be asked to undress to your underwear for a physical examination of the affected areas.

Where is the practice located?

South by Southwest Specialists, Suite 20, 13 Digitaria Drive, Gledswood Hills NSW 2557. Free undercover parking is available in the basement car park, or use free street parking. We recommend navigating via Google Maps and arriving at least 15 minutes early.

How long will my first appointment take?

30–45 minutes, depending on the complexity of your medical problem. This includes time for Dr Kamalaraj to complete a letter to your referring doctor.

What if I'm late or need to cancel?

Arriving late: Please plan to arrive at least 15 minutes before your scheduled appointment. Dr Kamalaraj is often fully booked — arriving late may result in rescheduling.

Cancelling: Please provide at least 48 hours' notice so another patient can take your slot. Cancellations with less than 48 hours' notice may result in no further appointments being offered.

How much does it cost? Can I get a Medicare rebate?

Fees vary by complexity and will be quoted at the time of booking. Additional fees apply for injections, nailfold capillaroscopy, and medical reports.

Medicare: Yes — with a valid referral and Medicare card, most patients are eligible for a Medicare rebate.

Private health insurance: Most policies do not cover outpatient specialist appointments. We can provide a receipt for your insurer.

Do you offer Telehealth?

Yes — for follow-up appointments and after Dr Kamalaraj's approval. Initial appointments must be in person to allow for a proper physical examination. Telehealth is available for rural, regional, and interstate patients.

Getting Started