New Patients at Gold Coast Chiropractic
Your New Patient Journey
Choosing a chiropractor is an important decision, and we want you to know exactly what to expect at every stage of your care. From your first phone call through to your ongoing visits, our team is here to provide clear communication and personalised attention in a welcoming environment. Whether you’re visiting us for conditions like back or neck pain, headaches, sciatica, poor posture, a sports injury, or you’re simply looking after your spinal health, we’ll guide you through each step of the process so you can make informed decisions about your care.
Step 1: Booking Your Initial Consultation
Your journey starts with a simple phone call or an online booking. Our friendly chiropractic assistants will help you find an appointment time that suits you and answer any questions before your visit. Before you arrive, we’ll ask you to complete a health history form so your chiropractor has a clear understanding of your concerns and medical history ahead of your appointment.
Step 2: Your First Visit
Your first appointment runs for approximately 45 minutes and is focused on getting to know you, your health history and what has brought you into the practice. After a warm welcome and a quick tour of our office, you’ll meet with your chiropractor to discuss your current concerns, previous injuries or accidents, your health history, lifestyle and work demands, sporting activities, any previous care you’ve received, and your health goals. Your chiropractor will then perform a thorough examination tailored to your individual presentation. This may include:
- A complete health history
- Postural and spinal movement assessment
- Orthopaedic testing
- Neurological examination
- Muscle and joint evaluation
- Functional movement assessment, where appropriate
Step 3: Digital X-rays (When Needed)
Not every patient requires X-rays. When clinically appropriate, your chiropractor may recommend digital spinal X-rays to gain a clearer understanding of your spinal structure and to identify any factors that may influence your care. This helps ensure any recommendations are based on a thorough assessment of your individual circumstances.
Step 4: Your Report of Findings
Rather than beginning care immediately, we believe it’s important that you understand the findings from your assessment first. Your second appointment usually takes around 30 minutes and includes your personalised Report of Findings. During this visit, your chiropractor will explain:
- The findings from your examination
- Any X-ray findings, if imaging was recommended
- Any diagnosis where appropriate
- Whether chiropractic care may be suitable for you
- Recommended care options
- Expected timeframes
- Exercise or lifestyle recommendations where appropriate
You’ll have plenty of opportunity to ask questions before deciding how you’d like to proceed. If you choose to continue, you’ll receive your first chiropractic adjustment during this appointment.
Step 5: Your Personalised Care Plan
No two patients are the same, which is why every care plan is tailored to the individual. Your chiropractor will consider your condition, health goals, age, lifestyle, work requirements and activity levels when discussing recommendations. Whether your goal is to improve movement, become more comfortable during everyday activities, return to sport or maintain your spinal health, your care will be personalised to suit your circumstances.
Step 6: Your Ongoing Care
Once your care plan is underway, regular visits are usually much shorter, often around 5 to 10 minutes. Throughout your care, your chiropractor will continue to review your progress and adjust your care where appropriate. Depending on your individual needs, your appointments may include chiropractic adjustments, joint mobilisation, soft tissue techniques, exercise recommendations, postural advice, ergonomic guidance and home care recommendations. Everyone progresses differently, so we’ll regularly review how you’re feeling, assess changes in your movement and discuss whether any adjustments to your care plan are appropriate. Our goal is to provide the right care for the right amount of time, no more and no less.
Step 7: Looking After Your Spine Long Term
Why Patients Choose Us
For more than four decades, we’ve been helping Gold Coast families look after their spinal health through personalised, patient-centred care. When you visit our practice, you can expect a thorough assessment, clear explanations without pressure, individualised care recommendations, modern facilities including digital X-rays when clinically indicated, and a friendly, experienced team committed to making every visit as comfortable as possible. Our goal is to help you better understand your spine, make informed decisions about your health and feel confident in the care you receive.
Health Fund Claims
We accept a range of health funds, including DVA, HCF, Bupa and Medibank. HICAPS claiming is also available for eligible services, making it easier to process your rebate at the time of your appointment. As individual cover varies, we recommend checking with your health fund before your visit to confirm your eligibility and rebate amount.
Ready to Begin?
If you’re experiencing back pain, neck pain, headaches, sciatica, poor posture, or you’re simply looking to prioritise your spinal health, we’d love to welcome you to Gold Coast Chiropractic. Contact us today to arrange an appointment at a time that suits you.
