FAQ

At the forefront of Preventative Care

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can you be my GP?

Novator specialises in the highest possible levels of health assessment and preventative care and does not offer general medical services. Your general practitioner is best equipped to provide ongoing primary care.

What do I need to do before coming to the clinic?

It is important that you complete the Novator Questionnaire, read and sign the consent form and send it back to the clinic at least 20 days before your Novator clinic appointment.

You must complete your blood tests and imaging at least 10 days before your Novator clinic appointment.

Bring comfortable clothing and exercise shoes.

What do I need to know about scans and tests?

We undertake blood and urine tests on all people. If you have a particular problem with having your blood taken, please let us know. We offer a standard Whole body MRI scan which scans from your head to mid-thigh and upper arms. It is a screening scan that images your head, chest, abdomen and pelvis. This scan is not a dedicated musculoskeletal scan and not a substitute for targeted MRI scans. Dedicated MRI scan and other imaging such as Ultrasound and CT scans can be arranged if needed after discussion with the Doctor. An extra fee is charged for extra scans. No medical test is ever 100% accurate.

How does an MRI scan differ from a CT scan?

MRI scans are very safe and have no radiation. MRI scans give superb images of soft tissue structures. CT scan do have some radiation exposure similar to an Xray. CT scans are preferred for viewing bone, lungs and coronary (heart) arteries. DEXA is a CT scan that specifically looks at bone density to detect bone loss. Both DEXA and MRI can determine body composition.

How long does the MRI scan take?

Normally about 25-30 minutes. You are made comfortable on a table that slides into a doughnut shaped machine. It is important to keep still during the test. You can talk to the radiographers undertaking the test. MRI machines are a little noisy like CT scans.

Do I need to be physically fit to undertake the cardiometabolic and exercise testing?

No. Cardiometabolic exercise testing is tailored to your ability. We will check that it is safe for you to proceed before the test.

How often should I have an assessment?

Generally, we recommend an annual assessment, but you can discuss this with the Doctor at the time of your visit. We can send you a recall reminder if you would like one.

Is there a minimum age for the assessments?

We offer these assessments to anyone over 18 years of age. There is no upper age limit for the assessments.

How can I get to the clinic?

The clinic is conveniently located at 53 Lincoln Road in the ARG building. It is next to Waitakere Hospital. It takes about 20 minutes to reach it from central Auckland and the North Shore. Usually you will be going against the traffic. AT buses stop just outside the clinic every 15 minutes. There is also a cycle route from the CBD along the North Western Motorway which avoids Lincoln Road. It is a 17km ride from the CBD.

Is there parking at the clinic?

Yes, there is ample parking outside of the clinic.