Frequently Asked Questions

·      What does the consultation involve?

o   Each consultation involves a thorough history and examination.  This will guide whether allergy testing is considered appropriate and this will be offered at the appointment and inclusive in the appointment fee.

·      What type of testing do you do and does it include food?

o   The skin testing will be offered if the history is consistent with type 1 allergy.  This can be done for a panel of common NZ aeroallergens and/or any foods for which there is concern.  There may be other tests indicated for non type 1 allergy as skin testing is not helpful for all allergies.

·      Are you Southern Cross affiliated?

o   We have Southern Cross easy claim which allows for direct billing to Southern Cross when your policy covers your appointment.

·      Does the appointment fee include blood tests?

o   Blood tests are usually done at the community laboratories and there is no fee for this

·      Do you see infants?

o   We see all ages

·      Do you work with patients who have autoimmune disease? Psoriasis, painful joints?

o   I am not an immunologist so my expertise relates to allergy, eczema and urticaria/hives.

·      What is the price of Environmental allergen immunotherapy?

o   This varies depending on the route of administration and number of allergens used but usually ranges between $1000-2000 per year and usually requires a treatment course of 3 years.

·      Does the price cover allergen desensitisation therapy?

o   The consult fee does not cover allergen desensiitisation

·      Do you offer a SPT without a consult?

o   No.  The skin testing is only helpful if the history supports this.  It is not a helpful test on it’s own and requires specialist interpretation.