What to do if you have no GP?

This blog is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice or diagnosis. If you have health concerns, consult an AHPRA-registered telehealth doctor or request a medical certificate online if clinically appropriate. Please note: Hola Health does not currently offer Mental Health Care Plans.

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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 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
• 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 may be able to help

Hola Health is an Australian telehealth platform that connects you with registered doctors and nurse practitioners — from the comfort of your home, at a time that suits you. Depending on your situation, a Hola Health clinician may be able to help with:

• 24/7 General medical advice via telehealth doctor consult — talk through symptoms or health concerns with a registered doctor or medical practitioner
• Medical certificate online — for work or personal leave, when clinically appropriate
• Referrals to specialists - or in-person services when needed
• Online prescriptions — at a clinician's discretion and where clinically suitable
• Pathology or imaging requests — when assessed as appropriate by your treating clinician

Hola Health clinicians are AHPRA-registered Doctors and medical practitioners in Australia. They will always recommend an in-person consultation, specialist referral, or emergency care if that is in your best interest. Note: Telehealth is not suitable for all conditions. Hola Health does not replace your regular GP, specialist, or emergency services. If you are unsure whether telehealth is right for your situation, we recommend speaking with your usual healthcare provider. In emergencies, call 000.

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.