What to Expect at Your First GP Appointment

Visiting a GP for the first time can feel a little daunting, whether you’re new to the area, haven’t been to a doctor in years, or are switching practices. Knowing what to expect can help you feel more comfortable and get the most out of your appointment.

At Glen Iris General Practice, our doctors provide compassionate, patient-centred care for people of all ages. Here’s a step-by-step guide to what usually happens at your first GP visit.

Booking and Preparing for Your Appointment

Most GP clinics allow you to book online or over the phone. When you make your first booking, you may be asked to arrive a little earlier to fill out a new patient form.

To get the most from your visit, it’s a good idea to:

• Bring your Medicare card and any private health insurance details

• Prepare a list of current medications, vitamins, or supplements you take

• Gather any recent medical records, test results, or specialist letters if you have them

• Think about the key issues you want to discuss and write them down so you don’t forget

  
  

This preparation helps your doctor build a clear picture of your health history.

Meeting Your GP

During your first consultation, your GP will ask about your medical history, lifestyle, and family health background. This might include questions about:

• Past illnesses, surgeries, or hospitalisations

• Any allergies or medication reactions

• Your family history of conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, or cancer

• Lifestyle factors such as diet, exercise, alcohol use, and smoking

This information helps your GP understand your health risks and tailor care to your needs.

Physical Examination and Initial Checks

Depending on your age, health, and reason for visiting, your GP may carry out a basic physical examination. This can include:

• Checking your blood pressure, pulse, and weight

• Listening to your heart and lungs

• Looking at your skin or eyes for any concerns

  
  

If you’re attending for a specific issue, such as a cough, injury, or rash, your doctor will examine the area of concern and may recommend further tests.

Discussing Preventive Health

Your first GP visit is also a good opportunity to talk about preventive care. This might involve:

• Screening tests based on your age and risk factors

• Vaccinations that may be due

• Advice on nutrition, exercise, and sleep

• Support for mental health or stress management

Preventive health is a key part of general practice and can help you stay well in the long term.

Prescriptions and Referrals

If you need medication, your GP can provide a prescription. In some cases, they may also refer you to a specialist, allied health professional, or for further tests such as blood work or imaging.

Your GP acts as the central point of care, coordinating your treatment and ensuring all aspects of your health are managed.

Building an Ongoing Relationship

A GP appointment isn’t just about one-off concerns. Having a regular GP means you have a trusted doctor who knows your history and can provide continuity of care over time. This relationship makes it easier to track changes in your health, manage chronic conditions, and make informed decisions together.

Taking the Next Step

Your first GP appointment is the start of a partnership in your healthcare. By preparing beforehand and being open with your doctor, you’ll get the most benefit from your visit.

At Glen Iris General Practice, our team is committed to making patients feel comfortable, respected, and supported from the very first visit. If you’re local, you can also book an appointment at our Ashburton GP clinic for convenient, high-quality care close to home.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for general educational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional diagnosis, treatment, or care. Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified healthcare professional with any questions you may have regarding your health or medical condition.