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Frequently asked questions
Q. Who provides the service?
A. The GP Support Program is a free
service provided by the RACGP in line with
college’s commitment to foster a culture of self care amongst
general practitioners. The service is delivered by IPS Worldwide ®
(IPS), an Australian owned national provider of member assistance
programs. The counselling services will be provided by registered
psychologists.
Q. Is this a free service?
A. Yes. The first three consultations are
free to all RACGP members who are registered medical
practitioners.
Q. What if I require further counselling sessions? Are these
also free?
A. Your psychologist will assess whether you
require further assistance. They may either recommend additional free
counselling sessions or they may refer you to another specialist who can
provide further support.
Q. What if I experience difficulties in other areas of my
life? Am I eligible for more sessions?
A. GP members can access three free sessions
of counselling per presenting issue. If you are experiencing multiple
concerns in your life, your psychologist may recommend additional free
counselling sessions.
Q. Is the service confidential?
A. Absolutely. Your
situation is dealt with in the strictest confidence by the IPS
psychologists.
Q. Who is eligible?
A. All RACGP members who are registered
medical practitioners. To access the GP Support Program you will
simply need to quote your RACGP/QA&CPD member number. This
information is not provided to the RACGP.
Q. Will I see the same psychologist for each counselling
session?
A. Yes, the same psychologist will conduct
each session. If, for any reason, you would like to see a different
psychologist just talk to one of the IPS appointment officers.
Q. How long is a consultation?
A. Generally, each session will last for
about one hour.
Q. I’m a rural GP, is the service available to me?
A. Yes. The GP Support Program is available to rural, remote
and regional general practitioners with face-to-face counselling
available in over 200 rural and urban locations throughout Australia. View a full list of
locations.
Q. I am interested, what’s the next step?
A. All you have to do is call 1300
366 789 to make an appointment for face-to-face or telephone
counselling during business hours. To access counselling for traumatic
incidents or crisis situations call 1800 451 138.
This service is available 24 hours, 7 days a week.
Q. I have some queries about how this service operates. Who
should I call?
A. In the first instance, please call the RACGP member
helpline on 1800 331 626. Your queries will be handled
discreetly.
