Finding a good GP
Finding a good GP is an important part of your transition planning.
Everyone should have a local doctor (also called a general practitioner or GP). Your GP will take over the role of your paediatric health team.
It’s important your GP is someone you feel comfortable with, trust and can talk to easily about your health. A GP can support your mental and physical health and will work together with other health professionals to bring together your management plan.
Finding a good GP
- Ask family and friends who live near you if they can recommend a good GP or contact Trapeze or an ACI Transition Coordinator
- Try these websites (Health Direct, Health Engine, Aboriginal Health and Medical Research Council) to find a GP or Aboriginal Medical Service or Aboriginal Community Controlled Health service in your area
- If you change GPs, ask to transfer your medical records to your new GP to ensure information remains up to date.
Attending GP appointments
- Most GP appointments are between 5–15 minutes long. If you think you will need more time, ask the receptionist to book you in for a long appointment
- It is important that you arrive on time for your appointment, so allow plenty of time to get there
- Bring your Medicare card with you
- Call and cancel your appointment if you can’t make it. Be sure to reschedule
- Ask if the practice has disability access
- Ask if there is a quiet room you could use or sit in if needed.
Cost of seeing a GP
- The cost of seeing a GP varies
- Some GPs ‘bulk bill’ which means there is no out-of-pocket cost to you
- Other GPs may bill you, which means you have to pay the difference between their fee and what Medicare covers
- It is a good idea to ask the receptionist if the GP will ‘bulk bill’, how much a standard appointment will cost and how much you will get back from Medicare
- Don’t be afraid to ask if the GP can bulk bill you, especially if you have a Health Care Card
- For more information, see our 'Medicare related' information in the next chapter.
Questions to ask yourself about your GP
- Do they understand my condition or know how to get help for me?
- Do I trust them to give me an honest answer?
- Do they support me to get other professional help, e.g. a second opinion if I want it?
- Can I talk to my GP about embarrassing or difficult health topics?
- Is my GP listening to me?
- Do I feel comfortable with my GP?
- Do they explain my choices in a way I understand?
- Does my GP take me seriously?
- Do they keep my personal information private?
- Does my GP encourage and support me to take control of my health care?