Therapeutic Venesection
Therapeutic venesection is a controlled blood removal procedure used to treat conditions involving excess iron or red blood cells, most commonly haemochromatosis and polycythaemia. Hunter Blood Group performs venesection in a purpose-built treatment space at our Newcastle West clinic, with each session lasting approximately 15 to 30 minutes.
Who is therapeutic venesection for?
Haemochromatosis
Hereditary or acquired iron overload requiring regular blood removal to reduce ferritin and iron stores
Polycythaemia vera
A myeloproliferative neoplasm causing elevated red blood cell counts that increase clotting risk
Secondary polycythaemia
Raised red cell counts secondary to chronic lung disease, sleep apnoea, or other causes — venesection is only required in exceptional circumstances and is usually not recommended
Porphyria cutanea tarda
A condition involving excess porphyrins where venesection helps reduce iron-mediated damage
What to expect during a venesection
- 1 Referral — Your GP or specialist provides a referral. You can submit it online, email a photo to hello@hunterblood.au, or fax it to us.
- 2 Booking — We contact you to schedule your appointment. Frequency depends on your condition and blood results.
- 3 Procedure — A needle is inserted into a vein in your arm and approximately 500 mL of blood is removed over 15 to 30 minutes. You rest comfortably in our purpose-built treatment space throughout.
- 4 Aftercare — Stay seated for a few minutes, have a drink, and avoid strenuous activity for the rest of the day. Blood is discarded in accordance with medical guidelines.
- 5 Follow-up — Regular blood tests monitor your iron or haemoglobin levels, and venesection frequency is adjusted accordingly.
How to prepare
- Hydrate well — Drink plenty of water in the hours before your appointment to make the procedure easier.
- Eat a light meal — Having food before your session helps prevent lightheadedness.
- Wear loose sleeves — This allows easy access to veins in the arm.
- Bring your Medicare card — Required for billing at each visit.
Duration and frequency
Each venesection takes 15 to 30 minutes. During the initial phase of treatment (sometimes called "de-ironing"), sessions may occur weekly or fortnightly. Once target levels are reached, most patients move to maintenance venesection every two to four months.
Fees
The fee below covers the haematologist consultation, review, consent, supervision, and nursing administration of your venesection.
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Therapeutic venesection fee | $91.35 |
| Medicare rebate | -$72.35 |
| Out-of-pocket gap | $19.00 |
The Medicare Safety Net may further reduce your out-of-pocket cost once annual thresholds are met. Visit our fees page for full details on billing, safety net entitlements, and payment options.
How to refer for therapeutic venesection
Online referral form
GPs can submit referrals directly through our secure online form.
Submit referral onlineUpload a referral
Patients can upload a photo or scan of their doctor's referral letter.
Upload referralEmail or fax
Email a photo of your referral to hello@hunterblood.au or fax to 02 4092 7789.
View all referral optionsAge requirement
Hunter Blood Group provides treatment for adults aged 16 years and over only. Patients under 16 should be referred to a paediatric haematologist.
Frequently asked questions
What is therapeutic venesection?
Therapeutic venesection is a procedure where a controlled volume of blood (usually around 500 mL) is removed from a vein in your arm. It is the standard treatment for haemochromatosis and polycythaemia, reducing excess iron stores or red blood cell counts to safe levels.
Do I need a referral for therapeutic venesection in Newcastle?
Yes. A referral from your GP or specialist is required. You can submit it via our online referral form, upload a photo through our website, or email it to hello@hunterblood.au. A valid referral ensures you receive your Medicare rebate.
How long does a venesection take?
The procedure itself takes 15 to 30 minutes. Allow approximately 45 minutes total to account for check-in, the venesection, and a short rest period afterwards.
Is venesection painful?
Most patients experience only brief discomfort when the needle is inserted, similar to a blood test. You may feel mildly lightheaded after the procedure, which is why we ask you to rest for a few minutes and stay well hydrated.
How much does therapeutic venesection cost?
The total fee is $91.35 per session. With the Medicare rebate of $72.35, your out-of-pocket gap is $19.00. The Medicare Safety Net may further reduce your gap once annual thresholds are met.
Need a therapeutic venesection?
Submit a referral or call 02 4092 7788.