What to do if you have no GP?

Overview

A general practitioner (GP) is a doctor who looks after everyday health concerns, such as diagnosing illnesses, managing long-term conditions, prescribing medication, and referring patients to specialists when required. In Australia, a GP is usually the first doctor people see for medical issues. Having no GP means a person does not have a regular doctor they visit generally for their health concerns. Instead, they may visit different clinics or doctors whenever they need medical care, without building an ongoing medical relationship. Note: The content of this blog is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical diagnosis, advice, or treatment.

How common is it to not have a regular GP in Australia?

Not having a regular GP is becoming more common in Australia. According to data from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, approximately 83% of Australians reported they had a regular general practitioner (GP) in 2022. This means that roughly 1 in 6 individuals do not have a consistent doctor. Various factors can contribute to this situation, including a shortage of available GPs, extended wait times for appointments, changes in residence, or a preference for walk-in clinics or telehealth options.

Why having a regular GP is important for your health?

Having a regular GP has many health benefits:

• Preventative care- Routine check-ups and screenings can help identify problems early.
• Continuity of care- Your doctor understands your medical history and health needs.
• Better chronic disease management- Conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, or asthma can be managed more efficiently.
• Trusted medical guidance- Patients may feel more at ease discussing personal or sensitive health concerns with a doctor they know.
• Consistent medical records- One clinic keeps a record of your medications, tests, allergies, and previous treatments.

A regular GP helps organise your overall healthcare, making it easier to manage both short-term and long-term health needs.

Common reasons people do not have a GP

Many Australians do not have a regular GP for practical reasons, including:

• Choosing walk-in clinics or telehealth services instead.
• Relocating to a new city or region.
• Difficulty getting timely appointments at local clinics.
• Limited availability of clinics that provide bulk billing.
• Busy lifestyles make scheduling appointments difficult.
• Living in rural or remote areas where GP services are limited.

What to do if you need medical care without a GP

Even without a regular GP, there are multiple ways to receive medical care. Practical options include:

• Check with your local medical clinic whether they accept new or walk-in patients.
• Use telehealth GP services for online consultations.
• Consult a local pharmacist for minor health problems.
• Visit an urgent care clinic for non-life-threatening problems.
• Visit a hospital emergency department if symptoms worsen.

Australia’s healthcare system ensures people get medical care even if they do not have a regular GP.

Where to find a GP accepting new patients

If you are looking for a regular doctor, these resources can help:

• Local Primary Health Networks (PHNs) that provide community health listings
• Online GP directories that list clinics currently accepting new patients.
• Community health centres in your local area.
• Suggestions from friends, family, or neighbours.
• Telehealth platforms that offer regular GP care.

Using telehealth when you don’t have a GP

Telehealth has made it easier for Australians to access healthcare, even if they don’t have a regular GP. Online GP services may offer:

• Consultations by phone or video.
• Electronic prescriptions (eScripts)
• Medical certificates for work or study
• Referrals for tests or specialist appointments
• Follow-up advice for lasting symptoms

Telehealth is especially helpful for people living in rural areas or those needing prompt medical support. Note: - While telehealth is a convenient option for many concerns, it cannot replace a physical examination. If your symptoms require a physical assessment, a telehealth GP will advise you to visit a clinic in person.

Visiting a walk-in or urgent care clinic

Walk-in clinics allow patients to receive care without booking an appointment. These clinics are useful for:

• Cold, flu or infections
• Mild allergic reactions
• Minor injuries
• Prescription renewals
• General health checks

They provide quick access to medical attention but may not support long-term care.

Pharmacies that can help with minor health concerns

Community pharmacists play a vital role in everyday healthcare. Pharmacists can help with:

• Advice on over-the-counter medications.
• Guidance on medication use and safety.
• Suggestions for managing minor illnesses.
• Vaccinations available
• Support for common conditions such as allergies, colds, and skin irritations.

Many Australians consult a pharmacist for minor health concerns.

When to go to the emergency department instead

If symptoms worsen or become life-threatening, prompt medical attention is essential. Seek emergency care if you experience:

• Severe breathing problems
• Chest pain or pressure
• Heavy bleeding or serious injury
• Signs of stroke (arm weakness, speech problems, or face drooping)
• Loss of consciousness

Emergency departments are well-equipped to treat urgent and life-threatening conditions. Note: - If you are experiencing a medical emergency, such as chest pain or difficulty breathing, call 000 immediately or visit your nearest Emergency Department.

How to choose the right GP for you

When selecting a new GP, it is helpful to consider factors such as:

• The clinic’s location and travel convenience
• Availability of appointments
• The clinic’s operating hours
• The doctor’s areas of medical interest (such as chronic conditions or women’s health).
• Whether the clinic provides telehealth services
• Bulk billing options or consultation fees

Steps to register with a new GP clinic

Registering with a GP clinic is generally simple. Here are a few easy steps to follow:

• Look for clinics accepting new patients.
• Call the clinic or book an appointment online.
• Present identification along with your Medicare details
• Fill out a new patient form outlining your medical history
• Attend your first consultation and discuss your health concerns.

Questions to ask when choosing a GP

Before choosing a GP, it can be helpful to ask:

• Does the clinic offer bulk billing or mixed billing?
• Are telehealth appointments offered?
• What is the duration of a standard appointment?
• Is it easy to schedule a follow-up appointment?
• Does the clinic provide after-hours medical care?

Tips for building a long-term relationship with your GP

Building a strong relationship with your GP can help improve your overall health. Helpful tips include:

• Going to the same clinic for almost all medical concerns.
• Informing your doctor about new symptoms or health changes
• Keeping a track of your medications
• Follow recommended check-ups and screenings
• Asking questions about your treatment or care.

Can telehealth help if you don’t have a regular GP

Yes. Telehealth can provide convenient access to healthcare while you look for a regular GP. They can help with:

• Online GP consultations
• Electronic prescriptions
• Medical certificates
• Specialist referrals
• Follow-up care and health advice

Telehealth provides an accessible alternative for timely medical advice when an in-person visit is not immediate or possible.

How Hola Health can help

Hola Health offers telehealth services that allow Australians to access GP care from home. Here are a few services they offer:

• Online GP consultations
• Medical certificates for work or study
• Electronic prescriptions sent directly to pharmacies
• Specialist and pathology referrals
• Follow-up care and medical advice

These services allow people to receive medical care when visiting a clinic is not possible.

Conclusion

It is quite common in Australia for people to not have a regular GP, and they rely on walk-in clinics, pharmacies, or telehealth for medical support. While these options can provide treatment when needed, they may make it difficult to maintain consistent medical records and ongoing health needs. Finding a regular GP can support better long-term health management and preventative care. Until then, options such as telehealth consultations, urgent care clinics, and community pharmacies provide convenient ways to access medical care and advice when necessary.