What the doctor will appreciate that you can do

• Please keep any appointments which you make, unless an emergency occurs. Counselling appointments are for lengthy sessions, and time is valuable. Your counselling time allocation is the same amount of time given to three or four people with medical problems.

• If you have a change of situation and know that your appointment will need to be changed, please give at least 2 business days notice, so that another person needing an appointment can take your place. A non-attendance fee of $60.00 (GST inc.) is otherwise payable, which is non-refundable from Medicare, before future appointments can be made.

• Be on time. One late person causes a domino effect!

• Tell the doctor anything which you think is important. The doctor is especially trained to help you with difficulties, but X-Ray vision of your thoughts may not be one of those skills!

• If you are taking medication, stay on the dose of medication which has been prescribed for you, unless you believe that you are having a disagreeable reaction. In this case, make contact with your doctor immediately. If it is not possible to contact your doctor, consult with your doctor's after hours deputy.

• Please make appointments to discuss medical or counselling issues in person. Over the phone diagnoses and advice can sometimes lead to errors. If you have an urgent situation you can phone the clinic and tell the secretary that you need to speak to a doctor. The clinic hours are 9-12 and 1-5 Monday to Friday.

• If important thoughts occur to you between sessions, write them down and bring your diary in.

• You will be given certain homework to complete between your counselling sessions, such as daily relaxation practise. Doing your homework will speed up your recovery and make it more long lasting. Your doctor will also know that you are committed to your health. You get the best results when you work together with your doctor as a team

• The after hours medical care phone number for a doctor to visit you at home is 0427 408 134. Alternatively or in an emergency you can attend casualty or call 000 for an ambulance.

What the doctor can do that you will appreciate

• Keep appointments as you do
• Be on time
• Carefully define the problem which is troubling you
• Shape a management plan of goals whilst considering your individual circumstances and your background
• Give you an approximate estimate of the number of sessions and the costs which will be required for treatment.
  
• Give you a referral to a suitable professional, if this is required
• Minimize distractions whilst you have an appointment
• Give you feedback about your progress.
  
• Respect your confidential information. This means that the doctor will not be able to give your friends or relatives any specific details of your welfare unless you have given permission to do so
• Take a professional interest in your welfare. Your doctor cares about your progress.