Question 1

Do I need a referral to see an ENT specialist?

Accepted Answer

No formal referral is required — self-referrals and GP referrals are both welcome. When contacting us, include a brief description of your symptoms, any investigations or treatments already tried, and relevant test results.

Question 2

How long is the wait for ENT surgery in Hawke's Bay?

Accepted Answer

Urgent surgery (e.g., cancer) usually within 1–2 weeks. Routine cases can generally be scheduled within 4 weeks, and we are happy to work around patient availability. We also maintain short-notice lists for constrained schedules.

Question 3

Can I contact my surgeon directly after surgery?

Accepted Answer

Yes — having navigated significant health challenges within his own family, Dr. Kennel knows first-hand how important it is to be able to reach your surgeon directly. He gives his personal mobile number to every surgical patient because he believes being reachable is part of the job. Most questions are simple to answer, and concerns raised early are almost always easier to resolve. He also uses patient feedback to continuously refine his care and track outcomes.

Question 4

What are your surgical outcomes and complication rates?

Accepted Answer

Dr. Kennel audits his outcomes annually. Key results: post-tonsillectomy return to theatre 1.5% (3 in 196 cases, all techniques), mastoidectomy facial nerve injury 0%, head & neck cancer clear surgical margins 92.9%, non-melanoma skin cancer clear margins 94.7%, non-skin surgical site infection 1.6%, 30-day postoperative mortality 0%.

Question 5

How much does an ENT specialist consultation cost in Hawke's Bay?

Accepted Answer

Initial consultation: $325 (child) / $397 (adult). Follow-up: $219 (child) / $289 (adult). Complex consultation: $629 (initial) / $475 (follow-up). ACC-covered appointments are free to patients. Southern Cross members have their own negotiated fees — we submit claims on your behalf.

Question 6

How long does it take to get an ENT appointment?

Accepted Answer

Urgent suspected cancer referrals are usually seen within 7 days. Most other patients are seen within 6–8 weeks, often sooner. If your GP considers your situation urgent, ask them to note that in the referral and we will prioritise accordingly.

Question 7

Do you accept ACC?

Accepted Answer

Yes, ACC is accepted and there is no additional ACC surcharge. ACC hearing loss evaluations are not performed through this clinic.

Question 8

What do I need to bring to my first consultation?

Accepted Answer

Arrive 10 minutes early and bring ID, insurance details, and any existing reports, medication lists, or previous treatment notes. Appointments are typically 30 minutes (complex cases: 40+ minutes). Payment is required on the day. Family members, whānau, or support persons are welcome to attend.

Question 9

Do you see patients from outside Hawke's Bay?

Accepted Answer

Yes — patients from anywhere in New Zealand are welcome. Dr. Kennel regularly sees patients from Gisborne and Tairāwhiti, where there is currently no local ENT surgeon. New consultations require an in-person visit; some follow-up appointments can be handled virtually.

Question 10

What ENT conditions do you not treat?

Accepted Answer

We don't treat: dizziness and balance disorders (referred to a specialist colleague), TMJ jaw pain, cochlear implants (performed at tertiary centres), cosmetic rhinoplasty or facelifts, or food allergy. Hearing aids are fitted by an audiologist. We treat a wide range of other ENT and head & neck conditions.

Question 11

Can I be put on the public surgery waiting list?

Accepted Answer

Yes, this is a common request for patients without private insurance. The public system offers the same surgical options, though cases are triaged by medical necessity. Urgent cases such as cancer are usually treated within weeks. Less urgent cases may wait months to over a year.

Request received