The role of a GP

Your GP (general practitioner or family doctor) is usually the first person you go to if you have a health issue. They can coordinate your care and look after you throughout your whole life.

GPs are specialist doctors who have completed training in general practice. In some countries, this is known as family medicine.

GPs complete many years of medical education before they can work independently. This includes a university medical degree, internship and specialist training in the hospital and community.

GPs have a holistic approach (they look at the whole picture) and have broad knowledge and skills.

If you need to see several health professionals, your GP can coordinate your care.

Your GP can help you manage your physical and mental health. 

Your GP can help diagnose, treat and support your health. They may also refer you to see other clinicians for more specialised help.

You cannot get a Medicare rebate if you see a specialist unless you have a referral from your GP from the previous 12 months or from another specialist from the previous 3 months.

If you need, your GP can also give you a medical certificate, a certified medical document or report an injury.

Read more about how to get the most out of your doctor's appointment.

GPs work within the community to support your health and wellbeing. They can manage many of the physical and mental health issues you may have throughout your life. 

GPs will consider your social, cultural and environmental background to give you care that is right for you. They can treat anyone, regardless of age, sexuality, cultural background or state of health.

Your GP will decide if you need to see another health professional. They can refer you to a medical specialist or an allied health professional when you need specialised care.

You can see your GP for help with:

• illnesses
• minor injuries
• ongoing care if you have a chronic condition
• care during pregnancy
• healthcare for children

You can also see your GP for preventive health and wellbeing services, such as:

• health advice
• prescriptions for medicines
• health screening, such as cervical screening or blood pressure checks
• vaccinations
• care if you are feeling overwhelmed or anxious

Australians see GPs more than any other health professional. They are often the most accessible part of our healthcare system. You can see a GP:

• at their practice
• in some hospitals
• in residential care facilities
• during a home visit
• on the internet or telephone

You can find a GP by asking for recommendations from neighbours, friends or family. You can also ask other health professionals in your area.

If you are looking for a GP who speaks your language or who understands your culture, talk to people in your community and ask who they recommend.

You do not need a referral to see a GP.

In Australia, visits to your GP are paid or partially paid for by Medicare if you have a Medicare number. If your GP bulk bills, this means they only charge the amount that Medicare covers. You won't have to pay anything. Your GP will take the payment directly from Medicare.

Some GPs charge more than the Medicare rebate. In this case, Medicare will cover part of the cost, and you will need to pay the remaining amount. This is called a 'gap fee'.

Some GPs have been offering consultations by phone or video link. This is called telehealth. Your GP may bulk bill these consultations or charge a higher fee. 
Most GPs will only offer a telehealth consultation if they are your regular doctor (meaning you have seen them in the last 12 months).

Some general practices offer after-hours services. Check with your GP about how to get medical care if you are sick or injured when the practice is closed.

You may also be able to see a GP at your nearest Medicare Urgent Care Clinic (Opens in new tab). These clinics may be open early until late every day. They provide urgent healthcare for people who do not require an emergency department. You can use the Healthdirect Service Finder to find a clinic near you, or locate your nearest clinic on this map (Opens in new tab).

Learn more about after-hours health services.

Check if a general practice is accredited by searching the online register (Opens in new tab) managed by the Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care.

Find out if a health practitioner is registered by using the Look up a practitioner (Opens in new tab) resource on the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency website.

The Black Dog Institute (Opens in new tab) has a resource giving advice on finding a mental health friendly doctor (Opens in new tab).

Languages other than English

Information about Medicare Urgent Care Clinics (Opens in new tab) is available in a range of languages.

Information for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples

Find an Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (ACCHO) (Opens in new tab) or Affiliate near you.

Information for sexually and gender-diverse families

Transhub has a directory (Opens in new tab) to help you find an affirming health professional, including GPs.