Choose someone you're comfortable with
When researching medical clinics and other health care centres, talk to them first on the phone or in person to find out if they're the sort or person you would like to deal with and if they offer the right kind of services for you. If you don't feel confident doing this, get a friend or relative to talk to them on your behalf.
It's important to feel confident and comfortable when talking about your health concerns with a health care professional.
Practical stuff
Here's a list of practical things to consider when choosing your health care professional:
- Where is the service located?
- Is it easy and quick for you to get there from home, school or work?
- Can you just make an appointment or do you need a referral from another doctor? (With some health professionals, such as specialists, you need your doctor to write you a referral before you can see them. Check with your doctor to see if this is the case)
- How much do the services cost?
- What costs are covered by Medicare (new window)?
- How soon can you make an appointment and are there waiting lists?
- If you arrive on time for your appointment will you see the doctor or specialist straight away, will you have to wait?
- Does the service meet your special needs such as evening or weekend appointments, and other access issues if you have a disability?
- Is there a cancellation fee if you miss an appointment?
- Do you prefer getting health advice and treatment from a man or a woman?
- Will they understand your religious or cultural background?
Making choices about your health care
Getting the right health care involves making important decisions about treatments, medications and other alternatives. You may not have to make a decision straight away. You can always ask for more information or even get a second opinion.
Consider asking:
- What choices do I have?
- Is there anything else I can do?
- Are there any other information or resources I should look at?
Visit Health Insite (new window) for questions you should ask your health professional.
Health care information on the internet
Visit websites, but be sure to stick with government and professional websites for health-related information. Always verify the information you find on a website with a qualified health professional.
Links
The Better Health Channel
Information and advice on all things and issues related to health.
Victoria Legal Aid - Health for Under 18s
Find out about health care choices and legal issues for under 18s.
Disability Online
Sarch for information on disability services in Victoria.
Medicare
Information on Medicare's services.
Kids Helpline
Kids Helpline is a 24-hour telephone and online counselling service to help young people.
Australian Broadcasting Corporation - Victoria Health Resources
Provides summary information on Victoria's healthcare industry and links to various healthcare sites.
