Your Consultation with Dr Rob McCusker
We understand that seeing a surgeon can feel daunting.
That’s why Dr Rob is committed to making you and your child feel comfortable, heard and supported at each stage of your child's surgical journey.
During your visit, Dr Rob will begin by taking a detailed history to get to know your child and understand their situation. Most paediatric surgical concerns do require a physical examination, and this will be done with care and only after gaining consent from both you and your child.
If you have any test results, scans, or reports, Dr Rob will review them thoroughly. He will then explain what may be going on in clear, simple terms. Together, you’ll create a plan — whether that means monitoring the condition, arranging further tests, or discussing surgical options if needed.
Dr Rob’s goal is for you and your child to leave the appointment feeling confident and clear about the next steps. All questions are welcome — he’s here to help, support, and guide your family through the process with empathy and expertise.
What to Bring to Your Initial Appointment
To help us make the most of your visit, please bring the following:
A referral from another doctor
Referrals from a GP are valid for 12 months
Referrals from a specialist are valid for 3 months
A valid referral is required for you to claim a Medicare rebate on your consultation fee.Your Medicare card and any Private Health Fund details
A Bladder/Bowel diary if your concern relates to constipation or wetting
Any relevant test results, including:
Scans (e.g. X-rays, ultrasounds, MRIs)
Blood tests
Reports from previous specialists or healthcare providers
Bringing this information ensures Dr Rob can provide the most informed and efficient care for your child.
Cancellation Policy
If you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment, please provide at least 24 hours’ notice. This allows us to offer the appointment to another child who may be waiting to be seen.
Thank you for your understanding and consideration.
Fees & Payments
Full payment is required at the time of your appointment.
Please contact reception for current consultation fees.Tongue Tie Procedures:
If performed in the rooms, tongue tie treatment is covered within the initial consultation fee.
If your child does require treatment during the consultation, there will be no additional charge beyond the consultation fee. This approach ensures that decision making for intervention is not influenced by financial gain.
Fees for Surgical Procedures
If your child needs surgery, Dr Rob operates with a known gap.
With private health insurance, you will only pay a deposit, with no unexpected out-of-pocket costs from Dr Rob.
If you are self-funded, a surgical quote will be provided by reception based on AMA recommended rates.
Hospital and anaesthetist fees may apply depending on your health fund and coverage.
Post-operative appointments are included at no extra charge.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Public and Private surgery?
Choosing private surgery can help avoid long wait times often experienced in the public system. Non-urgent procedures in public hospitals can be delayed for months or even years.
Public hospitals are also typically teaching facilities, which means your child's procedure may be performed or assisted by junior doctors under supervision. Public surgeries are also more likely to be postponed or cancelled at short notice to accommodate emergency cases.
In contrast, private surgery offers:
Greater certainty and continuity of care with your chosen specialist
More control over your child's treatment timeline, including the ability to choose the surgery date
A more streamlined and predictable experience
What costs are involved?
There is an initial consultation fee, which is payable on the day of your appointment.
Follow-up consultations are charged at a reduced rate.
If you have private health insurance:
Dr Rob operates under a known gap policy, meaning there are no additional surgical fees from him beyond the agreed gap.
There may still be hospital and anaesthetist fees, depending on your insurance provider and level of cover.
If you are self-funded:
Surgical procedures are charged in line with AMA recommended rates.
A full quote will be provided by reception prior to booking.
Tongue Tie Consultations:
There is no additional fee if a tongue tie division is performed during the consultation.
This ensures that any decision to proceed with the procedure is based entirely on clinical need and the best interests of your child — never on financial considerations.
Do you perform circumcisions?
Yes, Dr Rob performs infant and paediatric circumcisions.
In addition to medically indicated circumcisions, Dr Rob is happy to perform the procedure for cultural or personal reasons.
He does not perform neonatal (Plastibell) circumcisions.
Circumcisions are performed on babies over 6 months of age, under general anaesthetic with a penile nerve block, ensuring the procedure is as safe and comfortable as possible.
Dr Rob provides a non-judgmental consultation and surgical experience, supporting families in making informed decisions that are right for them.
Do I need to bring a referral?
Yes, a current referral is required to see Dr Rob.
Referrals from a GP are valid for 12 months
Referrals from another specialist are valid for 3 months
A valid referral also allows you to claim a Medicare rebate for your consultation.
Gold Coast Children’s Surgeon
Dr Rob is dedicated to the highest quality of care and technical excellence for his patients.