When something comes up
General Consultations
Most care starts here. A general consultation is time with a doctor to talk through what's going on, be examined if needed, and leave knowing what happens next.
At a glance
- Good for
- New symptoms, ongoing concerns, medicine questions
- Typical length
- Confirmed by the clinic when you book
- You leave with
- An explanation and a clear next step
- Referrals
- Arranged when a specialist is the right next step
In plain words
A general consultation is the front door to the clinic. You describe what's bothering you, the doctor asks questions, examines you where it helps, and explains what they think is happening in words you can repeat at home.
Sometimes that's the whole visit. Sometimes it leads to a test, a prescription, a follow-up appointment or a referral to a specialist. Either way, you should know why.
Why people book
People book a general consultation for all kinds of reasons, including:
- A new symptom that hasn't settled on its own
- A health question you'd like a doctor's view on
- Reviewing medicines, including ones prescribed elsewhere
- Understanding test results or a report from another doctor
- Advice before travel or a change in routine
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.
Tell your story
The doctor asks what's been happening, when it started and what you've already tried.
Examination, if needed
Only what's relevant to your concern, with an explanation of what's being checked.
A plain explanation
What the doctor thinks is going on, and how certain they are.
Agree next steps
Treatment, tests, a follow-up date or a referral, written down so nothing is forgotten.
After your consultation
- Ask for anything you didn't follow to be explained again
- Keep any written plan or prescription somewhere easy to find
- Book a follow-up if the doctor suggests one
- Contact the clinic if things get worse or don't improve as expected
What to bring
- A short note of your symptoms and when they started
- All the medicines you take, including supplements
- Recent test reports or discharge summaries
Please bring these with you rather than sending them through a website. See the full checklist
Questions people ask
Do I need a referral to book?
No. A general consultation is usually the first appointment, and the doctor can refer you on if needed.
Can I bring someone with me?
Yes. Many people find it helpful to bring a family member or friend, especially for longer conversations.
What if I have more than one concern?
Mention everything when you book. The clinic can tell you whether to allow more time or plan a second visit.
Will I always get a prescription?
No. Many concerns are best managed with advice, time or tests first. Your doctor will explain why.
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 general consultations?
Request an appointment and the doctor will talk it through with you, examine you if needed and explain your options.