Travelling to see Dr Cronin
Planning Your Trip to Brisbane for Eye Surgery
At both QEI and Focus vision, we are well-versed in assisting patients from across Australia and the Pacific region, ensuring their visit for consultations and treatments is as smooth as possible.
Where Can You See Dr Cronin?
Dr. Cronin consults at QEI Woolloongabba and QEI Clayfield. If you’re considering laser eye surgery or wish to reduce your dependency on glasses, your consultation will take place at Focus Vision Clinic within the Woolloongabba location.
Surgeries are performed at South Brisbane Day Hospital. For those flying into Brisbane, the Clayfield clinic is particularly convenient—it’s only a 10-minute drive from Brisbane Airport or a short walk from the Air Train stop. Many patients find it easy to visit Brisbane just for a day to complete their assessment.
Can Surgery Be Scheduled During the Same Visit?
We strive to streamline your surgery booking process to minimize travel and waiting times. Here’s what to expect:
Laser Eye Surgery and Pterygium Surgery: Often, your assessment and surgery can occur within 1-2 days.
Cataract or ICL Surgery: These procedures may require special lenses, which must be ordered—sometimes custom-made—after your initial consultation. The timeline will depend on the specific lens needed. Many patients can have surgery during the same trip, but availability varies.
Corneal Grafts or Custom Lenses: These may take longer, typically around 4-6 weeks for corneal grafts and up to 2-3 months for custom lenses or ICLs.
How Long Should You Stay in Brisbane for Laser Eye Surgery?
Dr. Cronin typically performs laser eye surgeries on Thursdays and Fridays. We recommend staying in Brisbane for a follow-up check the next day and another review around a week later. Flying home immediately after surgery isn’t advised, as any early recovery issues need to be addressed promptly. Most patients plan to stay for about a week and schedule their three-month check-up either in Brisbane or with a local optometrist.
How Long Should You Stay for Cataract Surgery?
For routine cataract procedures, surgeries are often scheduled for the first eye on a Tuesday, with the second eye treated two days later on Thursday. It is ideal if you can stay in Brisbane for 2-3 days after the procedure, longer if you live in a remote area.
Is Government Support Available for Travel?
You may be eligible for assistance under the Patient Travel Subsidy Scheme when traveling for medical care. Visit the Queensland Government website for details about eligibility. Bring the necessary forms to your appointment, and our team will gladly help you complete them. If you need the forms printed, just ask our receptionists—they’re happy to assist.
Where to Stay in Brisbane
A range of accommodation options is available near the Woolloongabba clinic, conveniently located close to public transport. Dr. Cronin’s surgeries are performed at South Brisbane Day Hospital, which is in the same building as our Woolloongabba clinic.
Need More Information?
Our friendly reception team is here to help! Whether you have questions about travel, accommodation, or any part of your visit, feel free to reach out via phone or email. Contact us today to make your journey to Brisbane as seamless as possible.