Frequently Asked Questions

What is Functional Medicine?

Functional Medicine focuses on identifying and addressing the root causes of disease. Many chronic medical conditions stem from various interconnected reasons, including diet, genetics, lifestyle, spiritual and environmental factors. Instead of only treating symptoms, Functional Medicine offers a comprehensive approach by investigating underlying imbalances and supporting the body's natural healing mechanisms.

What is Integrative Medicine?

Integrative Medicine combines conventional medical treatments with evidence-based complementary therapies. This holistic approach addresses the physical, emotional, mental and spiritual aspects of health, providing personalised treatments that support your journey to a longer and healthier life.

How are you different from a regular GP clinic?

We investigate root causes, create personalised treatment plans, use a team-based approach, and focus on prevention and wellness alongside treating illness.

How can I make an appointment?

All appointments can be easily booked online by clicking the Book Now button on our website. If you need help booking an appointment please contact a friendly Patient Advocate by phone.

‍

What should I bring to my first appointment?

Medicare card, concession cards, current medications list, medical history, insurance details, and any relevant symptom logs.

‍

What are your opening hours?

Opening hours for the clinic can be found on the home page of our website.

Do you accept new patients?

The doctors at this location accept new patients and are delighted you have chosen to receive your care at Next Practice. When booking a new patient consultation, please ensure that you arrive early to fill in the new patient form and get yourself acquainted with the clinic.

To give you the best care possible, the practitioners take time to understand your medical history, key health information and measurements such as height, weight and blood pressure. On your arrival, you will be greeted by a Patient Advocates who will ask you to complete a new patient form.

‍

Walk-In Appointments

The doctors here welcome walk-in patients; however, please be advised that wait times may occur. As they primarily operate by appointments, there could be occasions where accommodating walk-ins may not be possible. The doctors appreciate your understanding and encourage you to schedule appointments for more timely and efficient service.

How can I reschedule or cancel an appointment?

If you need to reschedule or cancel your appointment, please notify the centre at least one business day prior to the appointment.

If you fail to attend or give less than 2 hours notice that you cannot make your appointment a minimum fee of $30 applies.

‍

What is MyMedicare?

MyMedicare is a new voluntary patient registration model. It aims to strengthen and formalise the relationship between patients, the medical services clinic, general practitioner (GP) and primary care teams. Evidence shows that seeing the same GP and healthcare team regularly leads to better health outcomes for patients.

You can formally register with the medical services clinic or register with your preferred GP from 1 October 2023.

Learn more about how to register on our MyMedicare at Next Practice page. Or you can contact the Patient Advocates at the clinic directly for more information.

‍

How can I get a repeat prescription?

For most repeat prescriptions you will need to make an appointment to see your regular doctor to discuss your needs. By making an appointment for prescriptions, your doctor is better able to care for you, answer any questions you may have and inform you of any risks or concerns associated with your particular medication.

Our GPs can also offer Telehealth consultations, which are a convenient option for follow-up appointments.

Should you have any questions, please contact the clinic at norwood@nextpracticehealth.com.

How will I receive test results?

At Next Practice Norwood Parade test results will be delivered to you by your regular doctor.
It is in you best interest to discuss results and further health plans with you doctor. This will ensure that you have all necessary information for your health and wellbeing.

If results are not normal, you will need to make another appt. Please phone the practice after 1 week of having your tests.

‍

How do I receive a referral to other services or practitioners?

Your current doctor may refer you to another practitioner or specialist in order to best support and manage your condition. Referrals can be discussed during your consultation with the GPs at the clinic.

How should I communicate with the care team between appointments?

You can email the clinic your questions using the contact details on our website. Please allow 48 hours response time to emails. If you require urgent assistance please inform your Patient Advocate.

Always call 000 in the event of a medical emergency.

‍

What if I need an interpreter service?

If you, or a family member, need an interpreter for your appointment, please let the Patient Advocates know at the time of making your appointment.

What if I need after-hours care?

Next Practice Norwood has an afterhours agreement with DoctorDoctor. You can reach DoctorDoctor by calling 13 26 60.

This service provides bulk-billed, medical consultations in the home weekdays from 6:00pm, Saturdays from 12 noon, as well as Sundays and Public Holidays.

‍

What if I am seriously unwell?

In the event of a medical emergency, please call 000 or attend your nearest hospital.

Privacy

At Next Practice, patient confidentiality and privacy are paramount. You can find a link to the Privacy Policy at the bottom of this web page on the right hand side.