Frequently Asked Questions 

What's so special about Westgate Health?

• Westgate Health Co-operative is owned by its members - over 10,000 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.

Are we taking new members ?

• Due to the shortage of doctors we are not taking on new members

What is the process for a Script/Referral

• You will need to have a consultation with your GP to obtain a script or a referral

Is there a pathology service on site ?

• Clinical Laboratory provide all our on-site Pathology services at both our Newport and South Kingsville sites between 8.30am and 12.30pm Monday - Friday.

Are online bookings available?

• Currently online bookings are not available.

What is the Cancellation policy ?

• To enable us to offer your appointment to another patient in need, we require a minimum of 2 hours notice. If you are unable to provide this notice, there will be a fee of $30 which will need to be paid prior to booking your next appointment.

Emergency information

• In the event of an Emergency, please call 000.

Do you accept new patients?

• We currently have a pause on accepting new patients due to Doctor availability. This will be reviewed early in 2022.

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.

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 send out reminder texts for GP appointments.
• For allied health appointments, we will send a reminder the day before your appointment as a courtesy.

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.

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. A fee will apply, please contact reception.