FAQs

Here are some answers to Frequently Asked Questions on:

Feeling comfortable with your GP

Q. I am nervous about being examined by a male doctor. Can I insist on a woman doctor or bring someone with me for the examination?

Most GPs are happy to try to meet your request for a woman doctor for intimate examinations. It will depend upon the availability of a woman GP in your practice. Some GPs even refer to another service such as FPA to meet your needs.

Some practices have female nurses who can do the examination as an alternative.

You can bring someone with you. You can also ask if a nurse could be there too or your GP may regularly ask a nurse to assist. Some patients do not want anyone else present and find it more private with just the GP they know. Just as you can bring someone with you, the doctor can also say if they don’t feel comfortable with your support person for some reason.

Records and Reports

Q. How can I get my records if I want to see them or need to use them?

Your notes belong to your GP or the hospital who compiled them. You can ask about the information in your notes or ask to read them. You can ask for a copy of your notes. If you have a thick file of notes, it may be better just to copy the part you want.

You can ask to have your notes transferred to another GP. This request should be in writing and signed by you. Often the practice you move to will have a form for you to use for this. Some GPs are comfortable in giving you the notes to take yourself, but this is definitely not universal.

Q. If I’ve been to hospital to see a specialist can I get a copy of the report?

Many specialists send a copy of their letters to both the GP s and the patient. If that doesn’t happen then you can contact your practice and get a copy from them.

Q. When getting your results.

If you don’t get the results when expected, don’t automatically assume that everything is alright. Call your practice to find out your results and what they mean for you. This information is important.

Questions and Concerns

Q. I find it really hard to tell my doctor if I’m not satisfied with the service I’m getting. Is there a way to do this?

It is important to let your doctor know how you feel. Tell your GP what makes you unhappy and say what you would like to have happen. Sometimes there is a misunderstanding and both sides feel better when it is sorted out.

If you find it hard to speak directly to the doctor then you may prefer to write things down, or have a friend or family assist you. Even though it’s hard, it’s better if you can talk to your doctor.

You may wish to ask ‘I’m not sure I understand what you said…’ or ‘I’m worried that…’ or could you explain that to me again…’ or ‘Can I come back with my family to talk about this again…’

If the concern is more serious, you may need to contact the Health and Disability Commissioner. There is an 0800 number. They can help you decide what steps to take next.

Q. My doctor says I need treatment at the hospital. What does this mean?

Ask your doctor what the treatment will involve, who will be in charge of your care when you are in hospital. You may wish to ask ‘How quickly do I need to have this treatment?’ ‘Is there an option to have the procedure as a day patient?’

You may want to discuss private hospital treatment.

Q. Sometimes the receptionist is not very helpful. Who else can I speak to?

Many practices have a practice manager who could speak with you, or a practice nurse maybe available. You are welcome to say what has happened when you see your doctor.

Prescriptions

Q. What should I do if I think the medication prescribed does not seem right for me?

It’s very important that you let your doctor know if you are getting any unpleasant reactions to medication. This may be a side-effect, the dose may need altering or there may be an allergy say exactly what you are feeling as this will help your doctor work out what needs to be done. Be sure to inform your doctor if you are taking any natural remedies as they may react with your prescription.

The other time you may be unsure about the medication, is at the chemist as the pills may look different when different brands are substituted. If you’re not sure, check with the pharmacist so that they can make sure it is the right one for you.

The sort of questions you may wish to ask could be ‘What do the directions on the label mean?’ ‘Do you have any written information about this medicine?’ ‘How much should I take and when should I take it?’ ‘What are the common side effects I should look out for?’ ‘How long before it starts to work?’ ‘Will this medicine interact with any of the other medicines I am taking?’ ‘Are there any foods or other things I should avoid while I’m on this medicine?’ ‘How long do I need to take this medicine?’

Costs

Q. I feel awkward asking about costs. Should GPs have a list of costs I can read or take away?

These days everybody is cost conscious and it’s quite right to ask. There should be a list of basic consultation costs displayed in the waiting room or at the reception desk. Other services such as minor operations may vary in price depending on the time and equipment needed. It’s best to ask if you haven’t been told beforehand what that service is likely to cost. Some practices have pamphlets, newsletters or websites with the costs listed. Your PHO website will have a list of your local fees.

Q. Should the doctor tell me what a test or x-ray is going to cost me? What if it is more than I can afford?

Most GPs discuss the various options for tests and x-ray etc.

Private services charge for these though they may be subsidized in some situations depending on where you are in the country. If you have health insurance it’s useful to know what services this covers. Often a GP will only be able to give you an approximate cost and so you may need to check with the service directly. There’s no shame in saying you can’t afford a test. We are all aware of rising costs these days and you won’t be the only one in such a situation. It’s better to say up front and let the doctor find another solution if possible.

Q. I can’t afford to pay for the medicine the doctor prescribed. Can I get help with that?

Check with your doctor and/or your chemist as there may be a cheaper brand available. Also if you are on a benefit you may be entitled to a disability allowance from Work and Income New Zealand (WINZ) to help cover such costs.

Practice Nurse

Q. What services do practice nurses give and what are their qualifications?

Many nurses also provide patients with the information on special topics such as asthma, diabetes or sexual health. There may be a charge for practice nurse consultations.

They are often available to give results or organise prescriptions They can help decide if you need to see a doctor or, may have advice you can follow without you needing to come in.

Practice nurses do immunisations, dressings, and help with minor surgery. They can do health checks such as blood pressure, weight and blood sugar tests. Some practice nurses are trained to do cervical smear tests. Individual nurses may have other special interests and skills that contribute to the quality of care you receive from your general practice.