Yes, new patients are more than welcome. They will require a double appointment for their first appointment.
FAQ’s
Does your surgery take new patients?
What are your billing arrangements?
We ask for full payment at the time of consultation. You can pay with cash, credit card or Eftpos. We can arrange to get the rebate put directly in to your bank account or Medicare can send you a cheque. You an also register your bank details directly with Medicare.
Are there any situations where you bulk bill?
As a general rule we are not a bulk billing practice. However, how you are billed is a matter between you and your doctor. If you have a particular concern in this regard, you will need to discuss it with your doctor.
Do you immunise children at your surgery?
Yes we do. The child will need an appointment with the doctor and also a nurse.
How long are patients booked for a normal appointment?
Standard appointments are booked for 15 minutes duration. If you feel you will need longer than this, eg. cervical screening, Counselling, pre-employment medicals etc, please inform the reception staff when making your appointment so adequate time can be allocated.
What if I miss my appointment?
Wherever possible, it would be appreciated if you could ring us to let us know if you are not attending. We reserve the right to charge a missed appointment fee of $50 should at least 3 hours notice of cancellation of appointment not be given. Please be aware that this charge is NOT MEDICARE REBATEABLE.
Do I need an appointment for my results?
We ask that you phone reception for your results, usually about a week after the test has been taken. It helps if you call after 10.30am. The doctor writes a short note on the result, which is what the receptionist will read to you. If you need further information, you may need to make an appointment to discuss with your doctor.
Can I get a family member's test results over the phone?
Privacy laws make it illegal for us to disclose any information about a patient, even to family members, without their prior consent. If you would like a family member to have access to your results, you will need to speak to the doctor beforehand so a note can be made on your file.
I just need a script - do I have to make an appointment to see a doctor?
In general, an appointment needs to be made for the doctor to assess the need for a prescription. Where a medication is ongoing, the doctor may write a script without a clinical consultation provided no checkups need to be done. In this instance, there will be an additional charge which is currently $5 to cover costs which is not Medicare rebateable.
I need a referral letter for my specialist - can I get it backdated?
Medicare rules prohibit the backdating of referral letters and as such, the doctors at this clinic WILL NOT issue backdated referral letters. In addition, we ask that an appointment be made in order for the need for a referral letter to be assessed.
Why is my doctor running late?
We try hard to keep to time, however, injured and unexpectedly ill patients can cause delay. You can help too – please ask the receptionist to book an extended consult if you have multiple things to discuss, need a consultation that will include counselling, require a medical or cervical screening. If you are not sure if you require a longer consult, ask the receptionist.
Can I talk to my doctor over the phone?
Unfortunately, doctors will not generally be able to take patient calls during a consultation. You are welcome to leave a message with the reception staff for the doctor to return your call as soon as is practicable. If the matter is urgent please let the staff know the nature of the urgency so that your call may be dealt with appropriately.
Will you remind me when I am due for cervical screening or vaccination?
Our practice is committed to preventative care and we may send you a reminder notice at certain times to indicate that attendance for preventative health services is required. If you do not wish to be recalled please let reception know.
How are my medical records kept?
| Your medical record is kept electronically, so that whichever doctor or nurse you see, they can find what they need to know to help manage your health. Results of most tests are sent to the Practice electronically, so they can be added accurately to your file. Many specialist letters are also sent this way. Paper letters are scanned in to your file so they too can be stored electronically. |
Featured Fact
Our practice is open until 7pm at night Monday – Thursday. If you require appointments or home visits after this time, the practice phones are diverted to a Medical Deputising service.