Scans in New Zealand : how to get referral

[mariamarie]

Would be very grateful for help from Kiwis or pregnant tourists like myself.
My first baby is due in July, and I do want to do all the screenings, including nuchal scan. However I have a New Zealand holiday planned around my weeks 11-14, and I'll have to do the scan there. Even private clinics in NZ require referral, and my GP just refused to fill the form because she is not allowed to refer to tests abroad :( She also said that it's unlikely that a midwife would be able to write a referral either. Does anyone know how to get a referral for a scan abroad? Or do you know if a NZ GP would be happy to refer a temporary visitor?
I have actually found a similar post, but it's 15 years old, and might be irrelevant.

I would have your scan with the NHS on your return. I was away at my 12 week point so had it late

I may be able to help if you PM me we can discuss

If you go to any walk in urgent care centre they should be able to refer you for a scan.

Nanmumandmidwife, thank you, will do.
I guess urgent care centre is the last resort, as my case isn't realy urgent.

I think I just booked direct with the radiology practice. You have to pay but I'm sure it was under $200. Although mine was a few years ago.

Where will you be at that point. I have used Auckland Radiology. Call them or email them if the info isn't on the website.

KioreWahine, thanks, emailed them. Did they give you the scan report directly?

Auckland Radiology said that they can't do a scan without a referral :(

How are you flying to / from NZ? To be honest I would prefer to arrange a stopover and get my anomaly scan in Singapore / HK / the US as it’s a lot cheaper and easier. These countries often also follow up with an NIPT test if anything looks amiss and then you could make a consultant appointment in the UK whereby they could review the results and perform a CVS / another scan if needed.

Stopping in Seoul, but I would prefer to have the scan earlier, because I 'll already be 14 weeks during that stopover.

Sorry Maria. I wonder if they want you to have a GP or maternity carer to interpret the results.

You could go to a go and get a referral then take it to the scan. As you're a visitor/non resident it will be expensive at the GP. Google GPs near where you will be, some you can do appointments online and others will need a phone call. You could also explain to the receptionist and ask to speak the practice nurse to see if there would be any issues or if you would need to bring any paperwork/documentation (maybe blood tests or a letter from your midwife/gp).
Agree midwife approach would be trickier as you pick one and book in early with them.

Thank you, if getting a referral beforehand fails, will have a go with NZ GP