All it takes for better – and lower cost – doctor’s visits for you and your family is a simple enrolment form.
We all know the recipe for good health – regular exercise, good nutrition and getting enough sleep.
But one factor often not mentioned is the role that your doctor can play in helping to maintain your good health.
If you are new to New Zealand, our health system may work quite differently to that of your home country.
In New Zealand, General Practitioners (GPs) are usually the first person you contact for medical treatment. They (like dentists, midwives and a number of other health professionals) provide Primary Care. Professional healthcare and practices are usually close to where you and your family live and work. Studies have consistently shown that people who have an on-going relationship with their GP tend to be diagnosed more quickly and spend less time in hospital.
Significant savings
When you have a doctor who you trust and see regularly, it ensures that you get the right treatment when you are unwell. It also ensures that your doctor has a good idea of your overall health, lifestyle and risk factors, such as conditions like heart disease that may run in your family.
Your GP will help keep you healthy and well, and will be able to treat many injuries and illnesses. Sometimes, he or she may refer you to a hospital or specialist. This is called Secondary Care.
In New Zealand, you are able to register or enrol with a GP clinic.
Enrolling can significantly reduce the cost of doctor visits and pharmacy prescription charges through government subsidies. In some instances, the cost can reduce by more than half and in clinics and areas, enrolled children under six of age are even seen free.
These clinics are termed very low cost access (VLCA) clinics, and it is a good idea to ask about this.
GPs ensure that you receive continuity and more comprehensive healthcare.
Your GP will be interested in your future health and wellbeing, not just the irritating cough or cold that you may experience at times.
They will include you in recall programmes for smears, mammograms and educational sessions around health issues such as managing your diabetes or asthma. If your children are also enrolled, you will be sent reminders for free immunisation (and free four-year old checks) for them.
People enrolled are also able to access free interpretation services, if required.
Health history
Over time, your GP will get to know you very well, which means they would not have to seek the same information each time you see them. They will know, for example, what medication works for you, what has been tried before and what allergies you may have.
Most importantly, because your GP knows what is normal for you, he or she will notice any changes in you that could indicate a serious health problem.
If your whole family is enrolled with the same GP, your doctor will have a good understanding of your family’s health history. This is important because we know the same health issues are often present from generation to generation. Your GP can then play a key role in educating younger members of the family on what conditions they may have inherited, or are at risk of developing, so they can manage these conditions or even prevent them from developing. For example, with heart disease, your risk can be assessed and lifestyle corrections made to reduce the risk of heart attacks.
While those in their 20s sometimes feel they need a doctor less, there is still value in enrolling, as you will have someone thinking about your health well into the future, as well as keeping you fit and well now. Your GP and practice nurse are important people that you can talk to before what seems like a minor health issue becomes more serious.
It’s, of course, not compulsory to enrol, but you just will not enjoy the full benefits that enrolment brings – having a professional that will be thinking about how to keep you healthy and well.
Choosing a GP
Speak to friends or family for any recommendations. You will find a list of available GPs in the Auckland region online (www.yourlocaldoctor.co.nz). Language options are also available.
It would be worthwhile making an appointment to meet the doctor before you are unwell to make sure you feel comfortable with him or her.
The enrolment process is easy; all you need to do is complete a form available at the GP’s clinic.
Please note that it can take up to three months for enrolment to take place. You should therefore enrol before you become unwell in order to enjoy the benefits, such as cheaper fees when you do actually need to visit your doctor.
Dr Lannes Johnson is clinical director of Waitemata PHO. A University of Otago graduate, he has spent 30 years as a general practitioner and has delivered around 3000 babies. Email: info@yourlocaldoctor.co.nz
