Eight tips when choosing a new medical practitioner

Moving house often means finding a new medical practitioner, whether it is a GP, dentist, chiropractor or physiotherapist. The right provider supports your long term health and gives you confidence when you need care.

Here are eight tips to help you choose the right practitioner in your new area.

Start by asking your current practitioner if they can recommend someone near your new home. Health professionals often have trusted networks and can refer you to someone with a similar approach or speciality.

A professional referral can give you confidence from the outset.

Local recommendations are valuable. Family, friends and neighbours can share honest feedback about their experiences, wait times and communication style.

They may also know which clinics are accepting new patients, which can be important in high demand areas.

Another option is to ask a local health professional for a suggestion. For example, a pharmacist can often recommend nearby GPs or allied health providers. They usually have a good understanding of which clinics are reputable and accessible.

Accessibility matters more than you might think. Consider:

• Distance from your home or workplace
• Opening hours including evenings or weekends
• Parking or public transport access
• Whether the clinic is accepting new patients

Also check the fee structure. In Australia, some GP clinics bulk bill eligible patients, while others charge a private fee with a Medicare rebate. As a general guide, a standard private GP consultation may cost around $80 to $100, with Medicare covering part of the fee depending on the length and type of appointment. Specialist, dental and allied health fees vary more widely.

Understanding the gap payment upfront helps you budget and avoid surprises.

If you have specific requirements, confirm these early. This might include:

• Home visits
• Telehealth options
• A practitioner who speaks a particular language
• A preference for a male or female practitioner
• Experience managing a chronic condition

It is better to clarify these details before booking your first appointment.

Check that the practitioner is properly registered with the relevant Australian health authority. For example, doctors must be registered with AHPRA and dentists and allied health professionals are also regulated under national registration standards.

You can search the AHPRA register online to confirm qualifications and registration status.

Experience, areas of interest and ongoing professional development can also influence your decision.

Online reviews and social media feedback can provide insight into patient experiences. Look for patterns rather than focusing on a single comment.

Reviews should support your research, not replace it.