How can you choose the right Mornington GP for you?
Mornington residents will know, we’re lucky enough to have everything we need in plentiful supply, including doctors. Yet choosing your Mornington GP can be a daunting task, not least because of the potential benefits and ramifications it can have for your long term health. We like to simplify the complicated wherever we can so we’ve put together a checklist of things to consider when you’re looking for a new doctor.
Convenient Mornington medical clinic
This includes a few things. You want a doctor with a location that’s either nearby or easily accessible. We know our plentiful parking is really popular with our patients, as is our Main Street clinic. You also want to find a clinic that’s open suitable hours for your work. We open from 8am and close at 6pm to fit around before and after for work hours. We’re also open on Saturday mornings for those weeks you just can’t make it. Lastly, one of the main roles for your GP is co-ordinating your care for you. It’s what makes our integrated care offering at Beach End so convenient. With Clinical Labs pathology, pharmacy and other physicians all under one roof, we offer a one-stop shop for your care needs. Clinical Labs are also open before or after work hours for you to drop in without an appointment. That means less time waiting, arranging or travelling; more time getting on with the rest of your to-do list.
Doctors in Mornington that keep up to date
Medicine is constantly advancing so it’s crucial your GP is passionate about the industry and keeps abreast of important developments. All our Beach End doctors have made a commitment to keep up with the latest medical treatments as part of their RACGP qualification. As a clinic, we’re also committed to making sure our doctors and patients have the best access to technological advancements too.
Male or female GP
You might want to only see a GP of a certain gender, which is completely understandable request to make. Imagine the kind of questions or examinations a typical appointment might entail, how that makes you feel and take it from there.
Bulk billing doctor
The out-of-pocket cost of appointments is an important consideration for many. Beach End is a mixed billing practice, offering bulk billing for patients under 16 and pensioners. The current Medicare system hasn’t kept pace with the rising costs of medical services, so doctors who bulk-bill often have to move patients through more quickly to compensate for this. At Beach End, our doctors assess the complexity of the problem first, then decide how in-depth your consultation needs to be with an associated tiered fee.
A doctor who’s a good communicator
It’s essential to have an open, trusting relationship with your doctor to get the best possible care. Healthcare is deeply personal after all, so you want to feel comfortable with your GP to build a good relationship. You’ll also want someone who’s a good listener, who takes time to absorb what you’re saying. We’ve found the best way to get to know our friendly doctors is to meet them face-to-face so you can feel comfortable and confident that they’re right for you.
Being new to the Mornington area
If you’re new to the Mornington Peninsula, it’s a good idea to ask a friend, pharmacist or other health professional for some advice. It can be a strong starting point to ask a local expert, especially if their health concerns are similar to yours. Online reviews can also provide valuable insights into a clinic’s strengths and weaknesses.
Building a long-standing, trusting relationship with your GP is an investment in your long-term health. If you have any questions at all, please call us to ask. We’ll be happy to help.