Normal appointments

As a general rule, consultations are by appointment with the patient’s regular doctor. We see the development of continuing doctor patient relationships as essential to effective treatment.

If the patient’s regular doctor is not available within the time desired the receptionist will offer the patient an appointment with another doctor who is available.

Longer appointments

If you require a longer appointment please let our staff know. You should also advise staff if  more than one member of your family require to be seen so that an appointment can be made for each of them.

Repeat Prescriptions

An appointment must be made for all repeat prescriptions. No phone prescriptions are given.

EMERGENCIES

We will always make time available for patients needing emergency treatment.

If you believe that you or you child needs urgent medical care please say so to the receptionist.  She will then call  a nurse who will assess the situation.  The nurse may arrange for you to come to the surgery at once to be seen by a doctor or may advise you to go straight to hospital.  You may decide after discussion with the nurse that the matter does not need same day treatment and a later appointment can be scheduled

FEES

The Interchange General Practice bulk bills pensioners and other health care card holders.

Fees as of the 1st of January 2012 are:

Consultation	Fee	Medicare Rebate
Standard  (up to 20 minutes)	$75	$35.60
Long  (up to 40 minutes)	$130	$69.00

The cost of other services can be obtained from the receptionists.

The practice does not operate on credit and patients are requested to pay at the time of the consultation. We accept cash, cheque, EFTPOS and credit card.
Patients who have difficulty paying should discuss the issue with their doctor.
Workers Compensation claims and Third Party Insurance claims are the responsibility of the patient. Payment at the time of consultation is required.

A cancellation fee of $40 may be charged for appointments not kept, unless 24 hours prior notice has been given.

EMAIL REQUESTS FOR MEDICAL ADVICE

Interchange General Practice does not accept email requests for medical
advice.  Patients wanting medical advice must obtain an appointment to see a
doctor.