Minor Surgery in Tuncurry
- Collaborative Patient Care
- AHPRA-Registered Doctors
- Accessible Appointments
Tuncurry Minor Surgery
Minor surgical procedures can often be safely performed in a general practice setting, providing patients with timely care and continuity across their healthcare journey. At Tuncurry Medical Centre in Tuncurry, we offer a range of minor surgery services conducted by AHPRA-registered general practitioners in a sterile, controlled environment. These procedures typically require only local anaesthesia and are suitable for conditions that do not necessitate hospital admission. Services may include skin lesion excision, biopsy collection, wound management, abscess drainage, and removal of foreign bodies. Each procedure is preceded by a clinical assessment to ensure suitability and is followed by aftercare instructions and monitoring to support healing.
Patients benefit from convenient access to surgical care without needing to attend a hospital or specialist clinic. To enquire about a procedure or make an appointment, call (02) 6554 5531.
More About Minor Procedures
Before undergoing minor surgery, the doctor will conduct a full clinical review, including medical history and relevant risk factors such as medications or allergies. The procedure will be explained in detail, including its purpose, risks, and recovery process, and consent will be obtained. Most procedures are performed under local anaesthetic and take less than 60 minutes. Wound dressings, pathology referrals (if a specimen is collected), and follow-up appointments are arranged as needed. Depending on the procedure, patients may be advised to limit certain activities or return for suture removal and monitoring of the healing process. All surgical equipment and techniques comply with Australian infection control standards.
Clear communication, sterile conditions, and follow-up care help produce safe outcomes for minor procedures. To schedule an assessment, contact the clinic.
What is considered a minor surgical procedure?
Minor surgical procedures are low-risk interventions typically performed under local anaesthetic without the need for hospital admission. Common examples include removal of moles or skin tags, excision of cysts or benign lesions, biopsy collection, drainage of abscesses, and treatment of ingrown toenails. These procedures are usually completed within a short appointment and do not require general anaesthesia. Follow-up care may be necessary to monitor healing and check pathology results, if applicable.
Do I need a referral for minor surgery at a GP clinic?
In most cases, you do not need a referral to access minor surgical procedures performed by a general practitioner. However, your GP will first assess whether the condition can be treated safely in the clinic or whether referral to a specialist or hospital setting is required. Some complex or high-risk cases—such as suspected melanomas, large or deep lesions, or procedures involving significant vascular structures—may be referred to a surgeon or dermatologist.
Are minor surgeries covered by Medicare in Australia?
Many minor procedures performed by a GP are eligible for Medicare rebates if they meet specific clinical criteria and are billed under approved item numbers. Coverage depends on the nature of the procedure, the reason it’s being performed (e.g. diagnostic vs. cosmetic), and whether any pathology testing is involved. Your GP or clinic reception staff can provide further information about costs, billing options, and whether a gap payment applies.
