COLD/ FLU SYMPTOMS REMINDER
As we enter into the colder months, winter viruses are inevitable. If you are suffering from any flu-like symptoms (coughs, runny nose, sore throat etc.) please let our reception staff know. Where possible, we will ask you to wait in the carpark and the doctor will triage you from there (either on the phone or they will come down to you). We aim to keep unwell people out of the waiting room to prevent the spread of infection to other patients who may have other health conditions.
A gentle reminder, if you have not yet had a flu vaccination we do have these in stock. They are fully funded for many patients so have a chat with the practice nurse if you are unsure.
NEW BIKE RACK
After multiple patient requests, we are excited to announce a new bike rack has been installed. The bike rack is available for patient and visitor use. We ask those who utilise this new addition, to please park your bikes parallel to the building, as to not leave your bike in the way of the footpath.
This is a good reminder to patients too, we have a feedback box in the waiting room. If you feel there are ways we could improve, please leave us your suggestions. We do take them seriously!
STAFFING UPDATES
In April we said goodbye to our Nurse Prescriber Katy. Katy is a wonderful nurse, and we wish her all the best as she pursues the next chapter of her Nurse Practitioner study.
We will say farewell to receptionists Libby and Liza in mid-June. Libby has been covering Silvie’s maternity leave. Silvie is not returning (as she is now the practice manager at St Lukes Medical) and Liza will also be moving on too. We wish Silvie, Libby and Liza all the best.
ENROLMENT FORMS
Patients who enrolled with us prior to 2011 are required complete a new enrolment form. This comes as direction from the MOH, as old forms are no longer valid. If required, we will we ask you to complete a new enrolment form (and provide applicable ID such as a Passport or Birth Certificate), the next time you visit our practice. Forms can be taken away to be completed and ID can be emailed/ scanned to us.
NURSE PHONE CALL CHARGES
We will now be charging a fee for some non-urgent nurse phone consultations that do not result in a doctor’s appointment. This fee is based on the length of the call and aims to help cover the costs of providing this service. We appreciate your patience as we work to make this a smooth transition.
Please continue to call the practice if you have any health concerns or seek brief advice from our nurses. Our team will endeavour to assist you as quickly as possible.
Charges will be determined by the duration of the call.
·Less than 5 minutes Free
·5-10 minutes $15
·10-15minutes $25
·Over 15 minutes $44.50
WHAT IF A NURSE HAS CALLED ME?
If one of our nurses has initiated a call with you, then a fee generally will not apply, as these calls should not take more than 5 minutes. However, if you then request clinical advice from the nurse that extends the call, a fee may apply.
Often patients call requesting to speak with a nurse to be told a nurse will need to call them back. In these cases where a patient requests a call, if the call is longer than 5 minutes, a fee will apply.
WHAT IF I SPEAK TO A NURSE BUT THEY TELL ME I NEED A GP APPOINTMENT? WILL I BE CHARGED TWICE?
Our nurses will assess and advise you on whether you need a GP appointment or not as quickly as possible, so these calls should not take more than 5 minutes; you are unlikely to be charged.
WILL THERE BE A FREE IF I JUST WANT TO FIND OUT MY RESULTS?
No. You will not receive a charge for phoning our nurse to hear your results. If you wish to discuss your results in more detail the nurse may ask you to make an appointment with your GP. Alternatively, you can also access your results via your MMH portal (Manage My Health).
CAN I GET A MEDICAL CERTIFICATE BY SPEAKING WITH THE NURSE?
Most medical certificates require a GP appointment. Some medical certificates can be arranged by a nurse, but this will carry a nurse charge.
CAN I EMAIL MY QUESTIONS/ PRESCRIPTION REQUESTS INSTEAD?
No. We are unable to accept prescription requests or provide medical advice via email. We kindly request that you contact the practice directly on 03 548 2763, and our staff will assist you in requesting your medication or arranging for one of our nurses to call you.