Check
out the photo gallery of your local doctors and nurses in the Nelson/
Marlborough region
Useful stuff to know about how general practice works
info 4 u GP appointments are usually scheduled to last 15 minutes |
- Choose your doctor or nurse.
- Phone up for an appointment or call in to the surgery to make one. If it’s not your family GP or nurse make sure you mention that you want an “It’s Confidential” appointment. If it’s urgent, make sure you say that too.
- Turn up. Take a magazine or something to do in case you have to wait (if you don’t like sitting in the waiting room you can wait outside or in your car but remember to tell the receptionist where you are so you don’t miss your turn!). You can also take a friend for moral support if you want.
- During the consultation make sure you tell the doctor or nurse exactly what’s troubling you. You may like to think of how you are going to say this or to write some details down, especially if it’s an embarrassing problem.
- Don’t be afraid to ask questions if you’re not sure what the doctor or nurse is on about, they will ask plenty of you!
- Raise confidentiality concerns with the doctor or nurse, they will be able to reassure you.
- Ask about payment. If you have difficulty paying for the consultation, or wish to be given an account, remember also to discuss this. There are many arrangements that can be made.
what will it cost? With new government subsidies, GP visits for most people are now cheaper than ever But remember, the Practice Nurse can advise on whether you need to see the doctor, and phone advice is free! |