New Patient Information
Visiting a chiropractor for the first time? At Banora Chiropractic, we make the process simple. Here's what to expect at your first appointment, what to bring, and how we can help — whether you're dealing with back pain, headaches, sciatica, a sports injury, or just want to move and feel better.
What to Expect at Your First Visit
Your first appointment with us takes 30–45 minutes. We'll start with a thorough consultation to understand your health history, current symptoms, and what you're hoping to achieve. This is followed by a physical examination — including posture, range of motion, and orthopaedic and neurological tests where relevant. If we believe chiropractic care is suitable for you, we'll explain our findings and recommended approach before beginning any treatment.
Our chiropractors — Dr Paul Cater and Dr James Shipway — will take the time to answer your questions and make sure you feel comfortable with the plan before proceeding.
Do I Need a Referral?
No referral is required to see a chiropractor in Australia. You can book a new patient appointment directly. However, if you have a referral from your GP (for example, under an EPC/CDM Medicare plan), workers compensation, CTP, or DVA cover, please bring the relevant paperwork along.
What to Bring
To help us provide the best possible care during your first visit, please bring:
- Any previous imaging (X-rays, MRIs, CT scans) related to your concern
- A list of current medications and supplements
- GP referral paperwork (if you have an EPC/CDM care plan)
- Workers compensation, CTP, or DVA claim details (if applicable)
- Your private health insurance card
- Comfortable, loose-fitting clothing — this makes the examination easier and more comfortable
Do We Do X-rays In-House?
We do not take X-rays at the clinic. If imaging is clinically indicated based on your examination, we'll refer you to a local radiology provider and review the results with you at your next visit.
Fees and Private Health Rebates
We process private health fund rebates on the spot using HICAPS — you'll only pay the gap on the day. For current fees, please see our fees page. If you have any questions about coverage before booking, give us a call on (07) 5599 2322.
Need to Reschedule?
We understand that life happens. If you need to change or cancel your appointment, we simply ask that you give us as much notice as you can — at least 24 hours where possible — so we can offer the time to another patient who needs it. You can reschedule online, or give us a call on (07) 5599 2322 and we will find a time that works for you.
Booking Your First Appointment
When you're ready to book, you can:
- Book online — available 24/7
- Call us on (07) 5599 2322
- Email info@banorachiropractic.com.au
We're located at 2/44 Greenway Drive, Tweed Heads South NSW 2486 — easy parking on site.
New Patient FAQs
Do I need a referral to see a chiropractor at Banora Chiropractic?
No. You don't need a referral to see a chiropractor in Australia, so you can book online or call us on (07) 5599 2322. If you have a GP referral under an EPC/CDM Medicare plan, or WorkCover, CTP or DVA cover, please bring the paperwork with you.
How long does a first chiropractic appointment take?
Your first appointment takes 30–45 minutes. It includes a consultation about your health history and symptoms, a physical examination, and treatment if we believe chiropractic care is suitable for you.
What should I bring to my first chiropractic appointment?
Bring any previous X-rays or scans, a list of your current medications and supplements, your private health insurance card, and any GP referral or claim paperwork. Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing.
Does Banora Chiropractic accept health fund rebates?
Yes. We have HICAPS on-site, so private health fund rebates are processed on the spot and you only pay the gap on the day.
Do you take X-rays at the clinic?
No. If imaging is clinically indicated, we'll refer you to a local radiology provider and go through the results with you at your next visit.
Where is Banora Chiropractic located?
We're at 2/44 Greenway Drive, Tweed Heads South NSW 2486, between Reece Plumbing and Border Bikes. There's on-site parking, and the clinic is on the ground level with wheelchair access.
Ready to book your first visit?
We'd love to help. Book online or give us a call — same-week appointments are often available.
