If you don’t see your question here, please call the practice on 011 830 0205 | 011 830 1177 | 011 495 5003
1. Do I need a referral to see Dr. Ephraim?
A referral is recommended, particularly if you will be claiming from a medical aid. Self-referrals are accepted for general eye assessment. Emergency and trauma cases are always accepted without prior referral.
2. Which medical aids does the practice accept?
The practice is fully contracted in to all major South African medical aids. Your benefits are verified by the practice team before each visit.
3. Where is the practice located?
The practice is at Netcare Garden City Hospital, Suite, Cottage 16A, 35 Bartlett Road, Mayfair West, Johannesburg, 2092.
4. Where do I park at Garden City Hospital?
Netcare Garden City Hospital has on-site parking for patients and visitors. Please follow the signage to the medical centre entrance.
5. What happens at the first consultation?
Your first visit includes a full assessment of your vision and eye health, performed by the practice team using the practice's imaging and scanning equipment. Dr. Ephraim will then examine you using the slit lamp, review the test results with you, and discuss the diagnosis and management plan. Please allow approximately 60 to 90 minutes for the visit.
6. How long is a typical appointment?
A first consultation usually takes 60 to 90 minutes. Follow-up appointments are usually shorter.
7. Will my eyes be dilated at the appointment?
In most cases, no. The practice's equipment allows for examination and imaging through an undilated pupil. Dilation is only required in specific cases : for example, where Dr. Ephraim needs to assess the position or stability of the lens prior to cataract surgery. If dilation is necessary, you will be advised in advance and asked to arrange transport home.
8. Do you perform cataract surgery?
Yes. Dr. Ephraim performs small-incision cataract surgery (phacoemulsification with intraocular lens implantation) as day-case surgery at Netcare Garden City Hospital. The procedure takes around fifteen minutes and is performed under local anaesthetic.
9. What if I have an eye emergency after hours?
For sight-threatening emergencies : including sudden vision loss, severe eye pain, chemical exposure, or eye injury : present directly to the Netcare Garden City Hospital emergency unit, or to your nearest hospital emergency unit. The practice telephone line is not monitored after hours and is not a substitute for emergency care.
10. Do you see children?
No. The practice sees adult patients only (18 years and older). Children are referred to the on-site paediatric ophthalmologist at Netcare Garden City Hospital, who can be contacted through the hospital.
11. In which languages are consultations available?
Dr. Ephraim consults in English and Afrikaans. Her practice team : Paulette and Christina : collectively cover most other languages spoken in Johannesburg, including most African languages. Please let reception know if you have a language preference when booking, and a team member will be arranged to assist.
12. What are the practice hours?
The practice is open Monday to Friday, 08:00 to 17:00. The practice is closed on weekends and public holidays. Emergencies and trauma are always accepted through the hospital.
