Referrals
There are several ways to access specialist sport and exercise physician care in Christchurch. ACC referrals are the main pathway, with private, insurance, and direct enquiries also available.
How patients can access care
1. ACC referral (recommended)
Most patients are referred via their physiotherapist or GP under ACC for injury-related care.
2. Insurance or private referral
Referrals can also be made privately or through insurance providers.
3. Direct access (no referral)
In some cases, patients may contact the clinic directly to discuss appointment options.
- ACC contracted provider
- Christchurch clinics: Ferrymead & Parakiore
- Telehealth available where appropriate
For referrers
Close collaboration with physiotherapists and general practitioners is central to care. Referrals are welcomed for acute injuries, persistent musculoskeletal issues, bone stress concerns, REDs, endurance athlete health, female athlete health, and coordinated return-to-play or return-to-activity planning.
- Email referrals to [email protected]
- EDI: pinsport
- Urgent sports injury referrals generally seen within one week
- Shared rehabilitation planning encouraged
ME/CFS referrals
The ME/CFS service is a diagnostic and early management clinic rather than a routine long-term follow-up service.
Who is prioritised
- Patients under 20 years of age
- Patients unwell for less than approximately six months
- Patients without a confirmed diagnosis or prior specialist assessment
- Patients with significant diagnostic uncertainty or another compelling clinical reason
Patients with established ME/CFS generally benefit most from ongoing GP-led care, supported by patient organisations and evidence-based resources.
Requirements before referral
- A general physical examination since the onset of illness
- Relevant baseline laboratory investigations and further tests where clinically indicated
- An ongoing relationship with a New Zealand GP
- Patient email address for Telehealth arrangements
Consultations take place via Telehealth. Prescribing has practical and regulatory limitations, so the patient's GP remains responsible for ongoing general medical care, implementation of recommendations where appropriate, and most repeat prescribing.