Care for the whole family
Family & Adult Healthcare
Seeing a doctor who already knows your history makes every visit easier. Family care means one place that understands you and the people you look after.
At a glance
- Good for
- Adults, couples and older family members
- Continuity
- Records and history kept together over time
- Older relatives
- Medicine reviews, mobility and everyday concerns
- Children
- Ages seen are confirmed by the clinic
In plain words
A family clinic is most useful when it knows you over time. Past illnesses, family history and what's worked before all help a doctor make better decisions.
It's also practical. Families can plan visits together, and caregivers can join appointments for parents or relatives who need support, with their permission.
Why people book
Families often come to a clinic for:
- Everyday illnesses and concerns for any adult in the household
- Reviewing the many medicines an older relative may be taking
- Support for a family member caring for someone at home
- Coordinating care between several specialists
- Advice on vaccinations and preventive care for adults
Only a consultation can tell what's right for you.
What happens at the visit
Every visit is different. Your doctor will explain what they suggest before anything is done.
Register each person
So each family member has their own record and history.
Bring the history
Previous reports, discharge summaries and current medicines.
Plan visits together
Ask whether appointments can be grouped when it helps.
Keep it joined up
One clinic coordinating with specialists, so nothing falls between the gaps.
Keeping care joined up
- Keep an up-to-date medicine list for each family member
- Share specialist letters and reports with the clinic
- Ask for a medicine review if an older relative takes several medicines
What to bring
- A list of medicines for each person being seen
- Specialist letters and recent reports
- Written consent if you're attending on behalf of another adult
Please bring these with you rather than sending them through a website. See the full checklist
Questions people ask
Can I attend my parent's appointment?
Yes, with their agreement. It often helps to have a family member present for longer conversations or medicine reviews.
Does the clinic see children?
The ages a clinic sees vary. A real clinic would state this clearly here. Many families also see a paediatrician for younger children.
Can several family members be seen on one visit?
Ask when you book. Each person will need their own appointment time.
Will my records be shared with my family?
No. Each adult's records are private to them, and are shared only with their consent.
Have a question that isn't answered here?
Clinical review pending
Before publication, a registered doctor at the clinic reviews this guide. Their name, registration number and the review date appear here. General information for patients, not a diagnosis or personal advice.
Questions about family and adult healthcare?
Request an appointment and the doctor will talk it through with you, examine you if needed and explain your options.