FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can be seen at South Island Allergy Service?
We see people aged 5 years and over. We accept both doctor referrals and self-referrals.
Do I need a referral from my doctor?
No, we accept self-referrals as well as doctor referrals. However, we work closely with your GP to ensure continuity of care.
Do you see children under 5?
No, we do not see children under 5 years of age. Please discuss allergy concerns for young children with your GP, who can refer to a paediatrician if needed.
What conditions do you treat?
We provide assessment, testing, and management for allergic conditions. We also provide ongoing management of desensitisation treatment (allergen immunotherapy) to help improve your symptoms.
What is ASCIA?
ASCIA is the Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy. We operate under their clinical guidelines to ensure evidence-based best practice.
How long is the wait for an appointment?
Due to demand, appointment wait times may be up to four weeks. If your symptoms are urgent, please contact your GP for advice.
How long is an appointment?
Initial appointments are approximately 45 minutes. This includes consultation, testing (as required), and discussion of management and treatment options.
Do I need to complete a questionnaire before booking?
Yes, all patients are required to complete our pre-appointment questionnaire before booking. This helps us assess that we are the right service for your individual needs.
Can I book directly or do I need to wait to be contacted?
After you complete the questionnaire, our clinical team will review it and contact you to either arrange an appointment or recommend an alternative provider if needed.
How do doctors refer patients?
Referrals are made via ERMS.
What is skin prick testing?
Skin prick testing is a safe and effective method for identifying specific allergens that trigger your symptoms. A drop of the allergen is placed on the skin, then the skin is pricked using a small pricking device (lancet). This can be slightly uncomfortable but should not be painful. You will likely experience some temporary itching at the site. Results are read after
15 minutes.
Do you do skin prick testing without a doctor appointment?
No. All patients are seen by both a doctor and nurse as part of a comprehensive assessment. Skin prick testing is performed as part of this appointment when clinically appropriate.
What allergens do you test for?
We test for environmental allergens and some food allergens as indicated. The specific allergens tested depend on your symptom history.
Can you test for food intolerances?
No, food intolerances cannot be diagnosed with skin prick testing. If you have primarily gastrointestinal symptoms (bloating, diarrhoea, tummy pain), we recommend seeing your GP, who may refer you to a gastroenterologist or dietitian.
How do I prepare for skin prick testing?
You will need to stop taking oral antihistamines at least 4 days before your appointment. Antihistamines interfere with skin prick test results. Please do not use moisturisers or creams on your forearms on the morning of your appointment. Skin prick testing is usually performed on your forearms and creams can affect this process.
Will the test be painful?
The test can be slightly uncomfortable but should not be painful. You will likely experience some temporary itching at the site, which resolves quickly.
What if my test is negative?
Negative test results indicate that your symptoms are likely not related to allergies. This is still valuable information. The doctor and nurse will discuss other possible causes and recommend appropriate next steps.
What is desensitisation (allergen immunotherapy)?
Desensitisation involves regular administration of carefully controlled doses of specific allergens to help your body build tolerance over time. The majority of patients experience significant long-term relief.
How long does desensitisation take?
The exact duration depends on your individual response to treatment. It requires commitment to regular appointments and takes 3-5 years.
Do you provide ongoing desensitisation treatment?
Yes, we provide ongoing management and support for patients undergoing desensitisation treatment.
Can I transfer my desensitisation treatment to your service?
Yes. If you are currently receiving desensitisation treatment (allergen immunotherapy) through another provider and are moving to the Christchurch, we can take over the ongoing management of your treatment. Please email us at admin@allergyservice.co.nz with your current treatment details.
What treatment options are available?
Treatment options depend on your test results and may include allergen minimisation and avoidance strategies, allergy medications, and desensitisation therapy.
What does the appointment cost?
The initial appointment costs $450, which includes consultation with the doctor, time with our specialist nurse, testing (as required), and development of a personalised management plan.
Can I claim through my health insurance?We are a Southern Cross Easy-Claim provider. We will process the claim on your behalf at the time of the appointment.
If you are insured with another provider, we recommend contacting them directly to confirm coverage for our service. If you are covered for allergy testing you will be required to pay at your appointment and will then file the claim yourself directly with your provider.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept EFTPOS, credit cards, and internet banking. Payment is required at the time of your appointment.
Is there a cancellation fee?
Please contact us at least 24hrs before your appointment if you need to cancel or reschedule. Late cancellations may incur a fee.
What are your clinic hours?
Our clinic is open Monday to Thursday. For an appointment, please complete the pre-appointment questionnaire.
Where are you located?
We are located at Riccarton Clinic and After Hours Medical Centre 4 Yaldhurst Road, Upper Riccarton, Christchurch 8041.
Do you provide emergency services?
No, we do not provide acute or emergency services. If you are experiencing severe allergic symptoms or anaphylaxis, call 111.
Can I bring a support person to my appointment?
Yes, you are welcome to bring a family member or support person to your appointment.
Will I receive a copy of my results?
Yes, you will receive a summary of your results and management plan. If requested a copy is also sent to your GP to ensure continuity of care.