Finding a GP in Australia, especially if you live in a city, is quite easy.
A simple Internet search will come up with a few doctors in your area.
It's when it comes to finding the right GP for your needs that you might have to put in a little bit more work.
Dr. Tony Bartone is the Australian Medical Association Vice President.
He suggests that you first ask your community for their recommendations.
Having a chat with your friends or neighbours who are patients of that GP will provide you with more information.
You might be able to find a GP who speaks your language, but if you can't, look for one who treats other people from the same background so they're aware of your culture.
Double check with the practice how it will work.
Another very important criterion is whether the cost of your visit will be entirely covered by Medicare or if you'll have to pay extra.
Dr. Sama Balasubramanian is a practising GP trainee doing a specialised term in Refugee Health in Western Sydney.
He says that before your visit, you should ask if the clinic charges a gap fee.
If you're budget-conscious, a bulk-bill clinic, which is a clinic that charges no gap fee, might be the best option.
But paying a fee may sometimes be worth it if it means you'll get a GP closer to home or who fits your needs.
Have a look on the practice's website before your visit to learn as much as possible.
If you have any unanswered questions, Dr. Tony Bartone says to call the practice.
You might also want to ask or check if the practice is accredited by agencies like the Australian General Practice Accreditation or General Practice Australia, which means that the practice reaches a certain quality standard.
Once you have a GP in mind, make an appointment for a regular check-up to see how it goes.
Don't wait for severe illness to find out if it's the right practice for you.
Dr. Sama Balasubramanian says it's important that you feel comfortable with your GP.
If you don't feel listened to or if you feel like a GP is just not the right fit, don't be afraid to try a new one.
But when you do find that GP with whom you feel comfortable with, Tony Bartone says that staying with them will be the best decision for your health.
