Practice Policy  
 

• Appointments

  Appointments may be made during the hours of opening.

  Urgent medical problems are always dealt with promptly.

  Because each patient’s needs vary and are unpredictable, you may sometimes wait for your appointment. We appreciate your patience.

• When making appointments please consider the following:

  In a Standard Appointment the doctor is able to discuss one issue

  For multiple or more complex issues they request that you make a longer appointment or return on another occasion

  Longer appointments will incur a higher fee

  We appreciate your understanding

  Please ask reception if unsure which type of appointment is needed

  Please inform staff if you require a longer consultation

• Home Visits

        Are available for those patients who are very ill or frail.  Please phone for home visits as early as possible in the morning.

• Results

  In the interest of your health, patients are required to see the doctor by appointment for all results, unless otherwise requested.

• Privacy Policy

Doctors of Northcote complies with the Privacy Act 1988, which includes communicating relevant information with other treating doctors, specialists or allied health professionals, including the way we collect, store, use & disclose health information.

Your medical record is a confidential document. It is the policy of this practice to maintain security of personal health information at all times and to ensure that this information is only available to authorised members of staff.

• Phone Calls

Phone calls will be accepted by doctors for urgent matters.  Please make an appointment to discuss health concerns, results, referrals and other non urgent matters.

• Your health

In the best interests of your health and continuity of care, please request that records of your visit to other health professionals are made available to your own doctor.

• Your Views

We are pleased to hear your comments about our service. If you are unable to resolve a complaint with our staff or doctor you may contact the Health Services Commissioner, Level 30 570 Bourke Street, Melbourne. Contact telephone number 8601 5200 or 1800 136 066 during business hours.

Website: www.health.vic.gov.au/hsc

• At Reception

  Please report to reception upon arrival at the clinic.

  Should you have chest pain or shortness of breath, or a child with possible infectious disease please tell the receptionist immediately