How to choose a General Practitioner

Thursday, 17 September, 2020

Having a good GP and being able to stick with them over the long term has many benefits. They know you and your medical history. You become familiar with each other and can build a relationship that will help you to keep your health on track and help your doctor provide you with the best support and care.

Medical centres can have many doctors who work there, but it doesn’t mean you can’t request to see the doctor that you prefer.

Here are some of the benefits of seeing the same doctor.

Many medical conditions require follow-up and having a regular GP aids this process. For example, an infection that won’t go away might need a referral to a specialist. Once the specialist has met with you, they can report back to you and your GP to talk about what you might need and manage your progress.

When a doctor knows you over a period of time, they are in a better position to understand you as a whole person, not just your health needs! Even better, if you start a family, a family doctor can get to know everyone in your family and follow your children’s development.

How do you choose a good GP? Check out the attached fact sheet and write down a list of the specific qualities you want in a GP

"Understands mental health issues" is a good quality to start with. Some GPs view mental health issues using a disease model. Instead it might be better to have a GP who takes the view that recovery involves the whole person, not just "symptoms."
Do you prefer a young and energetic doctor or a doctor with more experience?
Do you want a doctor who has special post graduate interests such as paediatrics or nutrition?
Do you prefer a male or female doctor?
Do you prefer a doctor who speaks a particular language other than English? Doctors often advertise their language abilities.
Do you prefer a doctor who is comfortable with certain identity groups?
Do you want one who bulk bills?
Do you need one who makes house calls?