Question 1

Do I need a referral from my GP?

Accepted Answer

A referral is not always required, but it is strongly encouraged. Most medical aids need a valid referral to authorise a specialist consultation, and the referral letter gives us the context we need to make the visit efficient.

Question 2

Which hospitals does Dr Lawrence work at?

Accepted Answer

Consulting rooms are at Suite 7, Eugene Village, adjacent to Life Eugene Marais Hospital in Pretoria. Elective and emergency theatre work is done at Life Eugene Marais, with day-case procedures at Life Pretoria North Surgical Centre.

Question 3

Do you accept my medical aid?

Accepted Answer

The practice accepts most South African medical aids. Some plans are contracted with no first-consultation fee (e.g. Discovery Keycare, Polmed, Bonitas, Medihelp, Bestmed, Fedhealth, Bankmed, Keyhealth, Momentum). See the Fees page for the full list and important notes about DSPs.

Question 4

What should I bring to my first consultation?

Accepted Answer

Please bring your ID, medical-aid card, referral letter (if you have one), a list of current medications, and any relevant previous scans, lab results or discharge summaries. Completing the Patient Zone forms in advance saves time in the waiting room.

Question 5

What happens if I need surgery?

Accepted Answer

Dr Lawrence will discuss the diagnosis, options, risks and expected recovery in plain language. Once we agree on a plan, our practice manager coordinates hospital booking, medical-aid authorisation, and the anaesthetist. You will receive written information for the specific procedure.

Question 6

How do I reach the practice after hours?

Accepted Answer

For medical emergencies, go directly to the nearest emergency unit — Life Eugene Marais Hospital operates a 24-hour casualty. For urgent surgical concerns relating to a recent procedure, the hospital switchboard can page the on-call general surgeon.

Question 7

Do you consult in Afrikaans?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Dr Lawrence and the practice consult comfortably in both English and Afrikaans. Consent and information documents are available in both languages in the Patient Zone.

Question 8

How is my personal information protected?

Accepted Answer

The practice complies with POPIA. Personal and medical information is only used for your clinical care and legitimate billing, and is never shared without your consent except where required by law.

Answers, before you ask.

When you're ready, we're here.

Answers, before you ask.Answers,beforeyouask.

When you're ready, we're here.

Answers, before you ask.