OSHCstudents – If you’re seeking treatment for a physical or mental health concern, a general practitioner is likely your first point of contact. They help everyone from newborns to older adults. When choosing a GP, it is important to consider the following points.
Find someone you feel you can trust
It is important to find a doctor with whom you are comfortable being completely open and honest. Undoubtedly, a trusting, long-term relationship with a GP is the best way to ensure you receive consistent, quality healthcare throughout your life.
Seek recommendations
Friends and family may have helpful suggestions of GPs in your area who will suit your needs. Doctors and other medical professionals may also be able to recommend GPs with particular areas of interest and specializations.
Search for location and opening hours
Consider where and when you will most likely want to visit your GP. You may wish to visit a doctor close to your home, close to your work or at another convenient location. If you believe you will need to visit your GP outside of usual operating hours on a regular basis, you may also wish to look at practices offering extended hours.
Understanding about the after hours GP helpline: here
Billing
If consultation costs are a concern for you, ask about billing and payment practices when you are selecting a GP.
Rapport
It is important that you feel comfortable discussing all aspects of your health with your GP. You may have a preference for a female or a male doctor, an older or younger doctor; or you may have particular language or cultural preferences.
While it is useful to do some research before selecting a GP, the best way to discover if a particular GP is the right fit for you is to book a consultation, meet your GP and talk to them about your needs and expectations. If you are not satisfied that you’ve found your GP you can always visit other practices and doctors until you have found the right GP for you.
Search our comprehensive database to find GPs: here
You are international students or foreigners arrive to Australia, or Australian citizens traveling abroad who are looking for OSHC, OVHC, travel insurance, please contact OSHCstudents Team at email: info@oshcstudents.com and our partners for further information and assistance.
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