Following a controversial week for the general practice profession, the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) Australian GPs and patients will unite today to celebrate World Family Doctors’ Day.
RACGP President, Dr Liz Marles said World Family Doctors’ Day is an important occasion for all Australians to celebrate GPs as the driving force behind a healthy Australia.
“General practice is at the centre of healthcare systems all around the world. GPs are the first point of call for anyone experiencing illness or seeking health advice; delivering person-centered and continuous healthcare.
“Everyone needs a regular GP to support their ongoing physical and mental wellbeing. GPs are not only there to assist patients when they are ill, they are there to ensure healthy patients stay healthy.
“Preventative healthcare is paramount to the standard of health in any nation, and World Family Doctors’ Day is a time to celebrate the valuable services GPs provide through such programs as immunisation and preventative health screenings in developed and developing nations,” said Dr Marles.
To highlight the important role of GPs in the Australian healthcare system the RACGP has compiled a list of the top ten ways for patients to get the most out their time with a GP:
- Find a regular GP you trust so you feel comfortable talking openly about personal matters.
- Tell your regular GP if you have had any other medical advice or if you have gone to see another GP. It is important your health records stay up-to-date.
- Be honest with your GP about what is worrying you – they have heard it all before.
- Write down a list of things you need to discuss with your GP to optimise the time you have.
- Think about how your health may have changed since your last appointment. It is important for your GP to know.
- Prevention is better than a cure. Make sure your GP knows your family’s medical history so they can advise you on any appropriate preventative screenings for you.
- Don’t be afraid to ask for clarification if there is something you do not fully understand.
- Most appointments are 10–15 minutes, so advise the receptionist if you require an extended consult.
- Be sure your GP knows all medications you are taking, including over-the-counter and vitamins.
- If you require urgent medical attention, explain your situation to the receptionist to receive a priority appointment.
World Family Doctors’ Day is an initiative of the World Organization of Family Doctors (WONCA), a not-for-profit organisation that represents 126 member organisations – including the RACGP – in 102 countries.
The RACGP looks forward to celebrating World Family Doctors’ Day with GPs all around the country on Monday to raise the profile of the general practice profession.
The RACGP remains committed to continuously advocating for a ‘Healthy Profession. Healthy Australia’.