Frequently Asked Questions

Following Dr. Jongbloed’s retirement plans, the practice transitioned to a new management structure. A critical component of this transition involved migrating from Genie software (which lacked long-term compatibility with Medicare requirements) to Best Practice Software which is the most commonly used GP software. This process required significant resources and faced unexpected IT challenges. All steps were taken with local Primary Health Network support to ensure future functionality.

New management offered existing staff comparable employment terms, but not all chose to continue for personal reasons. No staff were terminated. Recruiting and training new staff in a specialized healthcare environment took time, but we have since stabilized operations with a fully trained team.

We sincerely apologize for the inconvenience experienced by Dr. Morris’s patients. Prior to her departure, Dr. Morris had reduced her working days in anticipation of retirement. After taking unplanned personal leave with no prior required notice to management and further no return date advised (making significant rescheduling), she formally resigned in early June 2025 without providing further details to the practice.

Three registrars are temporarily absent for July 2025 college exams, reducing capacity. We have engaged a locum to assist during this period, and our registrars will return in early July. Additionally, we are onboarding new GPs, who are expected to commence in October/November 2025 following credentialing.

In Australia, over 95% of general practices operate on a subcontractor model, where general practitioners (GPs) are independent healthcare providers who utilize the practice’s facilities and administrative support. Registrars in training are employed on a short-term basis by their respective training colleges but maintain clinical autonomy under the guidance of their supervisors. The practice functions as a service provider, responsible for staffing, premises, and administrative operations. Each GP operates independently, setting their own consultation fees and retaining full responsibility for patient care, including medico-legal obligations. While the practice provides support, it does not dictate clinical decisions, working hours, or rostering arrangements.

As independent practitioners, GPs have the autonomy to determine their own billing structures. While many doctors align their fees for consistency, variations may occur—including differences in bulk-billing practices. Patients are encouraged to discuss fees directly with their preferred GP if they have specific billing preferences or financial concerns.

To manage high call volumes efficiently and ensure prompt service, our appointment bookings are primarily handled by a dedicated call centre. This system allows our onsite staff to focus on patient care while maintaining smooth administrative operations. The call centre staff are direct employees of the practice, fully trained in privacy compliance under Australian law. They handle administrative tasks only and are not involved in clinical matters. Patients who prefer to speak with onsite staff can do so by selecting the appropriate phone menu option or booking online.

Telecommunication disruptions can occur due to technical issues with service providers or telecommunication infrastructure. While we strive for reliable connectivity, resolution times depend on external providers. We appreciate your understanding and are committed to minimizing any inconvenience.

Appointments are only cancelled due to GP unavailability, illness, or at the doctor’s request. If a cancellation is necessary, you will be notified promptly and offered alternative arrangements, including rescheduling or a phone consultation where appropriate.

Yes. Patients who prefer to speak with onsite staff can do so by selecting the appropriate option during the call or by booking appointments online.

We communicate appointment changes via SMS or phone call at the earliest opportunity. If you have not received confirmation, please contact the practice directly for verification.

We take all concerns seriously and encourage open feedback. Complaints are addressed professionally to ensure a respectful and supportive environment for both patients and staff. Please send us an email on the address provided on the website.

If your GP is delayed or unexpectedly unavailable, we will notify you as soon as possible and offer alternative options, such as rescheduling or a consultation with another available doctor.

Please inform reception or your GP if your situation is urgent or sensitive. We prioritize such cases to ensure timely and confidential care.

A temporary hold secures your appointment and helps reduce no-shows. No funds are deducted—the hold is released after attendance. Bulk-billed patients can avoid this by booking via phone.

In rare cases, technical errors may occur. We conduct thorough reviews of such incidents. You will receive an SMS reminder prior to your appointment; if you do not, please contact us to confirm.

Contact the practice immediately. We will investigate and prioritize rescheduling if required.

Yes. We proactively notify patients of any changes. You may also verify your appointment by calling the practice.

While the system may request card details to secure the booking, bulk-billed patients will not be charged. Any hold is released within three business days.

Online booking is optional for patient’s convenience. You are welcome to call the practice directly to schedule appointments.

Contact the practice for assistance. Your GP oversees result management and will communicate findings directly.

Records are securely transferred onto an encrypted disc and sent via registered post. In some cases, practice staff may personally deliver them to the post office to ensure prompt handling. Alternatively a secure digitised link is also used on patient’s preference.

Confirmation ensures appointments are utilized effectively, reducing missed opportunities for other patients. SMS reminders are sent in advance, and cancellations within four hours (or via email for early appointments) avoid fees.

A cancellation fee applies if an appointment is missed or cancelled within four hours to compensate for the allocated time. This fee may be waived at the discretion of your GP upon request. You can email us if you can’t reach our practice /after hours.

This fee covers:
• Staff time: Compiling records, consulting with GPs, and ensuring accuracy.
• Secure transfer: Encrypted disc or digital transfer via registered post.
• Long-term storage: Legal obligations require records to be retained for 7+ years (25+ for minors), incurring ongoing data security costs.

Health summaries are provided within 24 hours of the request and are free. Unfortunately, no Medicare rebate or pension concession applies.