Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I transfer my medical records from my old practice/doctor to Diagnom Medical Centre?
Please ask the reception team for a ‘transfer of medical records’ request form. Our friendly receptionist will help you filling the form.
How is my privacy and confidentiality managed?
Our practice team can describe how we ensure the confidentiality of your health records.
Our practice team can demonstrate how your health records can be accessed by an appropriate team member when required.
Our practice team can describe the processes we use to provide you with access to your health information.
Our practice team can demonstrate how you are informed about our practice’s policy regarding management of your personal health information.
Our practice team can describe the procedures for transferring your patient health information to another service provider.
Our practice team can demonstrate how we facilitate the timely, authorised and secure transfer of your health information in relation to valid requests.
When we collect your health information for quality improvement or professional development activities, we only transfer your health information to a third party once your consent has been obtained from you. Amended in May 2013.
Whenever any member of our practice team is conducting research involving our patients, we can demonstrate that the research has appropriate approval from an ethics committee.
How can I get a medical certificate?
Medical Certificates can only be provided by your doctor following a consultation. Unfortunately we can not prepare backdated medical certificates.
How are my test results managed?
Do I need to make an appointment or can I just walk-in?
We recommend that you make an appointment from one of our friendly reception staff. However we accept walk-ins as we are able but waiting times can vary greatly.
How long are the appointments?
A standard consultation may last up to 15 minutes and long consultations may be up to 30 minutes.
Our doctors make every effort to see you at your allocated appointment time. However, occasionally emergencies arise which require management and we appreciate your understanding that this can cause a delay.
Our doctors make every effort to see you at your allocated appointment time. However, occasionally emergencies arise which require management and we appreciate your understanding that this can cause a delay.
Do I need a long consultation (double appointment)?
Long consultations are recommended if you have multiple or complex health problems to discuss with the doctor. However, focusing a primary health concern of yours can be more fruitful in terms of utilising limited amount of time for your best interest.
If I have an urgent medical problem, can I be seen straightaway?
Yes, emergency cases are given priority to be seen urgently. Our reception staff are educated to recognise urgent cases and inform the GP instantly.
Is there any additional fees I need to know?
Diagnom Medical Centre is a bulk billing clinic. For a normal consultation the cost is nil. But certain procedures, our reception staff can let you know the out of pocket expenses at the time of any treatment.
Does your clinic arrange home visit?
Yes we do, But only in special circumstances. We much prefer that you attend the clinic where we have a much greater range of equipment to help us to look after you.
Is it possible for me to provide feedback/suggestions?
Yes, A free service is offered to doctors where an interpreter is required for a consultation for a non English speaking patient. The Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS National) is an interpreting service provided by the Department of Immigration and Border Protection for people who do not speak English and for agencies and businesses that need to communicate with their non-English speaking clients. www.tisnational.gov.au
What is the practice policy for missed or cancelled appointments?
You may be billed a standard consultation fee for a missed appointment. We expect that if you cannot attend an appointment that you ring the surgery at least 24 hours prior to the appointment to cancel it. If you regularly make appointments and do not attend you may find that we can no longer make appointments for you at our clinic.
How can I be reminded for my health needs?
We have a reminder systems in place. It is important that you take notice of your reminder letters and ring us to make an appointment when you receive a letter.
Do I need to make an appointment for getting repeat prescriptions?
Yes. You will be required to make an appointment. This ensures a proper medical practice and that our practitioners meet their medico-legal obligations to you to ensure prescriptions are appropriate, there are no risks in taking the medication and that your condition is being optimally managed.
Do I need to make an appointment for getting referral to my specialist?
Yes. An appointment with your doctor is required for a referral to a medical specialist. It is important that the referral is appropriate and the relevant medical information is included in the referral letter.
Does your clinic provide phone consultations?
Emergency Phone calls will be forwarded directly to your GP. However it is not desirable to consult on an illness over the phone due to safety issues.
Is there any wheelchair access to the clinic for disabled patients?
Our practice provides wheelchair access to reception, waiting areas, consultation and examination areas and toilets via open plan access to all areas.
Is there any toilet for disabled patients?
Yes, There is a unisex wheelchair accessible toilet for patients with disabilities.
I can not speak English well. Is there any interpretation service available?
Yes, A free service is offered to doctors where an interpreter is required for a consultation for a non English speaking patient. The Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS National) is an interpreting service provided by the Department of Immigration and Border Protection for people who do not speak English and for agencies and businesses that need to communicate with their non-English speaking clients. www.tisnational.gov.au