Frequently Asked Questions
Is NABS only for bulk billed appointments?
NABS services are available for specified private medical appointments regardless of whether they are fee paying appointments or bulk billed.
Does NABS operate 24 hrs, 7 days a week?
NABS operates nationally between the hours of 8am to 8pm, Monday to Friday and 8am to 1pm Saturday, excluding all national Public Holidays. Actual medical appointment times may fall within the normal consulting hours of medical or health care professionals however the NABS office is open at the times mentioned above.
What can I use NABS for?
NABS services are available for the following:
| GP and Specialist | Podiatrists or Chiropodists | Indigenous Health Workers |
| Chiropractors | Audiologists | Osteopaths |
| Dieticians | Psychologists | Mental Health Workers |
| Psychiatrists | Occupational Therapists | Speech Pathologists |
| Physiotherapists | Dentists | Optometrists |
| Naturopath | Remedial Massage | Acupuncture |
| Iridology | Click here for explanations >> | |
Is NABS for kids?
Yes! NABS services are for all adult and child users of sign language.
Can I choose my interpreter?
You can state your preference for an interpreter. NABS will endeavor to comply with your request however this will depend on the following:
- The availability of the interpreter
- If the interpreter is in your area or a reasonable distance from your region. Please ask NABS for a list of interpreters in your area.
- The qualifications of the interpreter (only NAATI accredited interpreters may be used)
- If the interpreter has chosen to register with NABS
- If the interpreter works via another agency (i.e. State Deaf Societies)
If your preferred interpreter is not available for any reason NABS will work with you to make sure that you have an interpreter you are comfortable with. All efforts will be made to accommodate your requests for each appointment.
Will NABS book my Doctor's appointment for me?
No, it is not NABS responsibility to make appointments with the doctor for you. NABS will organize an interpreter to attend your appointment. If you wish you may check with NABS about the availability of an interpreter before you make your appointment at the doctor.
Is NABS free?
Yes! NABS services are free to all users of the service.
How can I contact NABS?
| Phone (V) | 1800 24 69 45 |
| Fax | 1800 24 69 14 |
| TTY | 1800 24 69 48 |
| Bookings@nabs.org.au | |
| Feedback | feedback@nabs.org.au |
| SMS | 0427 671 261 |
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Can I have a NABS interpreter if I am in a private hospital?
Unfortunately NABS cannot provide an interpreter for you if you are a patient in a private hospital. All hospitals have a responsibility to provide an interpreter for you if you are their patient.
We encourage Deaf and Hearing Impaired people who are having problems getting an interpreter at hospital to make a complaint to the Health Complaints Commissioner in your state or territory. Please see the list below for contact details.
Click here for list of contacts
What if a Doctor or Health Service refuses my request for an Interpreter?
You can contact the Health Complaints Commision in your state.