Doctors these days can seem too busy to be much help. But there are ways to make sure you get the most out of your GP visits.
When you visit your GP, do the staff seem too busy to greet you? Do you feel you've sat forever in a waiting room surrounded by old magazines? And, when you get home, have you forgotten to ask the GP something important?
After years working in general practice, I find these are still patients' most common gripes. They can add stress when people are already unwell.
However, emergency cases such as sick babies or accident victims will always need to be seen first.
Fortunately, you can help make your visit less of a hassle and more worthwhile.
Write a list of your questions beforehand. Ask your GP to write down any important instructions. It's your body, so don't be afraid to ask. Looking after your health is a partnership between you and your doctor and being able to talk freely helps get the best care.
You are entitled to see a female doctor, take a family or whanau member with you, get a second opinion and, although GPs own your health notes, you are entitled to see them, have a copy, or transfer them to another doctor.
Standard consultations are 10 to 15 minutes long. You may not always see the same GP, even at the same practice so, if possible, bring a diary of your symptoms or pains. Ask how you will find out any test results.
You might be seen first by a practice nurse. They can provide health education, immunisations, cervical smears, wound dressings, blood-pressure checks and phone advice. Nurse practitioners also work in some practices. They are highly qualified, work independently of GPs and provide a wide range of care, often prescribing some medicines.
Find out what after-hours cover is available. Few clinics offer 24-hour cover and prices can vary a lot for after-hours services. Healthline offers a free national 24-hour health advice service on 0800 611 116. House visits are uncommon these days.
Sometimes your regular medicine may be altered to one with a different name. It could work exactly the same but ask your doctor if you are at all unsure.
General practice has changed in recent years. You are now likely to be registered with a GP in a Primary Health Organisation (PHO). PHOs are funded by the Government to subsidise your health services – so it's worth being registered.
Less-wealthy areas get more funding and those patients pay smaller fees.
Fees vary from practice to practice. Community Services Cards and disability allowances can help those on low incomes – check with WINZ. And discuss any cost concerns with your GP.
| DIY: DOCTOR DOCTOR |
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1 Ask friends and neighbours to recommend a GP.
2 Still looking for a GP? Try the phone book or ‘Find a Health Professional. |
3 Also check your GP is registered with the Medical Council.
4 Find out if any health insurance you take out covers some GP services. |
(Published in the Sunday News, 18 October 2009)
More everybody MYHEALTH columns from Barbara Docherty
Barbara Docherty is a registered nurse and clinical lecturer at the University of Auckland School of Nursing, and writer for the everybody.co.nz website. The opinions contained herein are those of the author and not necessarily those of the publisher or sponsor. Copyright UBM Medica (NZ) Ltd.
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