Information / Frequently Asked Questions
Do Brighton Family & Women's Clinic take new patients?
We have some limited availability to accept new patients, so call us now.
Do I need an appointment?
Consultations are by appointment only. Our reception staff will be happy to assist you in making an appropriate appointment with the doctor of your choice. If your doctor is unavailable, an alternative will be offered to you.
Does the clinic bulk bill?
We are a private billing clinic and do not bulk bill anyone except Veteran Affairs Gold cardholders (a fee applies for wound care). A schedule of fees is located in the Information section of this site.
Am I able to book a long consultation and when is this necessary?
Longer consultations are available. If you are a new patient, you have a complex medical problem, multiple small issues, are to undergo a procedure (such as removal of a skin lesion) or pap smear, please inform the reception staff when booking, so that adequate time and resources can be arranged.
Are there facilities for non-English/poor English speaking patients?
If a language other than English is spoken, please bring a family member or friend to interpret (if this is acceptable to you) or an interpreter can be contacted for a fee at the time of consultation.
How do I obtain my pap smear results?
These will be telephoned to you in the case of an urgent abnormality. Normal results will be notified to you in writing, with a recommendation for further follow-up.
Can I get my other test results without an appointment?
Test results can generally be obtained after 3 working days by telephoning our nurses on 9592 2744 between 10.00am - 12.00noon weekday mornings. Please obtain details of this service from your doctor. Please refer to the Results section on the Information Page of this website for more detaills.
How do I get a referral to a specialist/ for pathology?
Referrals to specialists are to be requested at the time of consultation, to ensure that the current, relevant medical information is transferred to the specialist.
Can I get prescriptions without an appointment?
Your medication should be reviewed regularly. Please oblige by making an appointment.
In the case of emergency, a $10 fee will apply and you will receive a reduced quantity of your medication. (at the discretion of the individual doctor)
I'd like to leave some feedback about the clinic. What do I do?
Feedback, both posiitve and negative is always welcome, you may request a feedback form from reception, download The Feedback Form here, or telephone our Practice Manager, Jane Davey, on 9592 0744. If you make a complaint & were dissatisfied with the way your complaint was resolved please contact the Health Services Commissioner on freecall 1800 136 066.
Can I speak to my doctor on the telephone?
It is preferable for you to make an appointment to see your doctor, however if necessary doctors in this practice may be contacted by telephone during normal surgery hours. As a courtesy to patients, our doctors generally do not interrupt consultations to take phone calls. A message will be taken for them to call back at the end of their session. In an emergency your call will be put straight through to a doctor.
What do I do in an emergency when the clinic is closed?
If you have a medical emergency please call an ambulance on 000. For medical attention outside normal surgery hours, the locum service can be contacted on 132 660. You can also attend Sandringham Emergency Department in Bluff Road, Sandringham, Ph: 9076 1470 or for patients covered by Private Health Insurance, Cabrini Emergency Department, Ph: 9508 1500 on Isabella Street, Malvern, where non rebateable fees may apply.
Are my medical records private?
This practice is committed to maintaining the confidentiality of your personal health information. Your medical record is a confidential document. It is the policy of this practice to maintain security of personal health information at all times and to ensure that this information is only available to authorized members of staff. Please see the privacy statement on the reception counter for further information.
How will I know when I'm due for my next test/yearly check-up?
As a service to our patients, we maintain a system to remind patients of routine tests, check ups or other preventative health issues via a letter. Your permission is requested on our patient registration form. If you do not wish to be sent reminder letters please advise your doctor or reception staff.
Can I arrange for a home visit?
Home visits may be available after discussion with your doctor, however it is preferred for patients to visit the surgery.