Frequently Asked Questions 

Do you accept new patients?

Yes, all new patients are welcome. Please contact our reception team to make a booking

What's so special about Westgate Health?

Westgate Health Co-operative is owned by its members - over 9,000 of them - who elect a local Board of Directors to oversee the operation and development of the co-operative. Westgate Health Co-operative is unique.

If I don't have Medicare can I still see a doctor?

Yes, however consults without a medicare card will attract a private fee. Please refer to our fee schedule or contact one of our receptionists for further details.

How do I become a member?

You will need to come into the clinic and fill out a membership form. Please speak with our reception team.

Do I have to become a member?

No, it’s not mandatory for you to become a member of the co-operative.

Should you not wish to join as a member, you will be charged privately for your consultations.

How do I renew my membership?

You can renew your membership online, or re-join when in the clinic by filling out a renewal form.

Do I need to make an appointment?

We require you to make an appointment. we do not accept walk-in appointments. Our doctors aim to see all patients in a timely manner.

Do I need a long consult?

Our appointments are booked in a standard slot of 15 minutes which usually allows discussion of one matter. Long consultations can be booked upon the doctor’s recommendation. Please advise our receptionists if you would like an extended appointment.

Can I have a phone consult?

Our doctors do not offer phone consultations. we recommend booking an appointment to discuss any health issues with your GP. If you have a non-urgent matter you wish to discuss, you may leave a message with reception.

How do I get my test results?

Test results will not be given be given over the phone. our doctors request that you attend an appointment for your results.

What if I need to see a doctor after hours?

If you require after hours medical assistance of a non-urgent nature, please call the national home doctor service on 13 SICK or 13 7425 for a bulk-billed home visit. They will send a report to your nominated GP the following day.

For urgent medical attention, please call 000. 

Do you send out appointment reminders?

We do not send out reminder texts for GP appointments. however, if you use our online booking system you will receive a reminder via email.

For allied health appointments, we will send a reminder the day before your appointment as a courtesy.

What is your cancellation policy?

We require 24 hours’ notice to cancel GP appointments. Failure to give the required notice period may incur a fee of $40.

Why do I need to see the nurse?

The nurse assists the doctor to ensure you receive the highest standard of care. The nurse may assist in procedures and take some observations before your consult, so the doctor has a more complete picture of your health.

Why is my doctor running late?

Our doctors and receptionists are not able to pre-empt how long an appointment will take.  Seemingly simple problems may need further exploration and discussion. Our doctors are thorough and will not ask a patient to leave until they are confident the highest standard of care has been given. This may cause a delay. occasionally an unforeseen emergency patient may require medical attention and need to be fitted in. we ask for your understanding in these incidences.

Can I get my medical certificate/referral changed or backdated?

If you would like your medical certificate extended, you will need to return to your GP for an appointment, so they can evaluate your condition.

We are not able to backdate medical certificates or referral past the day you saw the doctor for the condition.

Can I get my records transferred to/from your practice?

Yes, if you would like your records sent to us please ask reception for a ‘transfer of record form’ which we will send to your previous practice.

If you would like your records sent elsewhere, please send us your signed consent form and new practice details. your new practice will have a template for you to fill in.

Do you have parking on site?

There is off- street parking at the front of each clinic.

Do I need an appointment with pathology?

If you have a pathology request form from your doctor, you do not need to make an appointment. Our pathology services are offered on an as-you-arrive basis. However, if you require a glucose tolerance test (GTT or OGTT) please contact reception to book in.

Australian Clinical Labs are at both clinics: Monday – Friday 8.30am – 12.30pm