A vital decision that one has to take in life while dealing with illness, hospitalization or regular checkups is to choose a doctor. It becomes even more essential if someone’s medical condition requires expertise. For example, someone who has hypertension or any other heart problems may want to get treated by a trained cardiologist. Your geographical location and medical plans may restrict your choices. But it’s imperative to look for a doctor that meets your requirements. But before knowing the factors that you should consider before choosing a doctor, first, navigate through different components of the Australian health care system.
A glimpse of the health care system
Australian health care is considered one of the best health care systems in the world, which includes a range of services from preventative health care to complex care conditions. The Australian healthcare system is divided into two parts: The public healthcare system and the private healthcare system. You can pick one out of two or mix both.
Public health care
Public health care systems include public hospitals and community-based services, which are under the control of state and territory governments. You can get treatment from doctors in Liverpool for free or at a lower cost through the Australian public health care system (Medicare).
Private health care
Private health care services are owned and managed privately. It includes private hospitals, specialists and pharmacies.
In simple words, services you get through public health care are managed and funded by the government. On the other hand, services you access through private health care are funded by the government and private entities.
Payment for healthcare
Depending on the health care system you choose, funds are given by the government, the health insurance company or you.
Medicare
The Medicare scheme, which gives the public access to free or lower-cost health services covers the following:
- Bulk billing in Liverpool
- Some tests and examinations.
- Reduced prescription cost
- 75% of fees for doctor services are on the government list if you are a private patient.
Private health insurance
It is an optional cover that gives people more options when it comes to choosing doctors. It includes the following things:-
- Hospital treatment
Your health insurance provider will cover your expenses once you get admitted to the hospital.
- General and emergency treatment
General treatment, also called extras, can include services such as dental, optical and physiotherapy, depending upon the chosen policy. Emergency treatment includes ambulance services and treatment required in case of an emergency.
Now that you have learned about the health care system, it’s time to know what you need to consider while choosing a doctor.
1. Doctor presence in the insurance network
There are chances that the doctor on the list of your insurance network might be no longer there. Many doctors change their insurance networks without updating their information. It is, therefore, in your interest to give a call to the doctor and find out if they accept your specific insurance plan.
2. The gender of the doctor
If you think you would be embarrassed talking about your medical condition to a female or male doctor, consider booking an appointment with a doctor of the same gender. It becomes vital if you have routines such as prostate examinations.
3. Age of the doctor
Some people like consulting older doctors with good experience rather than the recently graduated ones. Some think that a younger physician might be more updated with the current medical technology and practices. If you have a specific medical routine, it’s best to build a long-term relationship with a doctor whose retirement is not approaching.
4. Ease in booking appointments
When choosing a doctor, ensure that their timing suits your office hours and lifestyle. If you need care often and have fixed working hours, a doctor with limited hours will not be an ideal fit for you. Call all your shortlisted providers and ask questions such as can you book appointments on weekends or how much time does it require to book an arrangement etc.
5. Availability of doctors after hours
Another crucial point to consider is whether the doctor will speak to you after-hours in case of an emergency. And ask whether they provide services such as a GP home visit in Liverpool.
6. Travelling distance from your office/home
It is better to pick a clinic at a reasonable distance from your residence or work. Also, remember that some doctors practice in multiple facilities, which may or may not come under your insurance. So make sure you pick the right clinic.
7. Reviews and ratings of the doctor
A doctor with a poor approach or attitude towards patients will not give you the care and support you want. It is best to search for the medical professional name on the web to know about his/her feedback. Many people look for health care professionals’ ratings to know about their services. But, it’s wise to search for that feedback that discusses relevant issues such as empathy, doctors’ behaviour, etc.
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