Patient Information
Important information about appointments, fees, results, recalls, privacy, accessibility and your rights as a patient.
First time visiting Annandale Doctors?
New Patient Information →Appointments
Book online through AutoMed, by telephone on (07) 4420 1183 or in person. Standard consultations are generally 15 minutes. Request a longer appointment for multiple or complex concerns.
Preferred Doctor
Patients are encouraged to establish an ongoing relationship with their preferred practitioner. If the preferred practitioner is unavailable, reception can advise what other appointments are available.
Telehealth
Telehealth and telephone appointments may be available for eligible patients when clinically appropriate. Contact reception to confirm suitability.
Fees & Billing
Annandale Doctors bulk bills standard eligible consultations for Medicare card holders. Private fees apply to non-eligible consultations, procedures and non-Medicare services. The reception team can advise of any applicable fees at the time of booking.
Please bring to every appointment:
- Medicare card
- Concession or Health Care Card (if applicable)
- DVA or Pension card (if applicable)
- Private health insurance card (if applicable)
Fees charged by external providers such as pathology, radiology, and specialist services are separate and may not be bulk billed.
Test Results & Recalls
A follow-up appointment may be required so results can be discussed in context and any next steps can be considered.
Recall System
Reminders may be sent by SMS, telephone or letter for preventive healthcare, ongoing conditions or follow-up. Patients should ensure their contact details remain current.
Recalls and reminders may be sent by the following methods:
- SMS message
- Phone call
- Letter
Please ensure contact details are kept up to date with the reception team so patients can be reached when needed.
Repeat Prescriptions
A clinical review may be required before a prescription is issued. Availability depends on the medicine, clinical circumstances and practitioner assessment.
Referrals
A consultation may be required before a new or updated referral is issued. Referrals must accurately reflect the clinical assessment and cannot be guaranteed without review.
After Hours Care
When the clinic is closed, after-hours care is available through House Call Doctor on 13 55 66 or Healthdirect on 1800 022 222. In an emergency, call 000 or go to the nearest hospital emergency department.
Interpreter Services
Interpreter services are available for patients who require assistance in a language other than English. Please advise the reception team when booking so arrangements can be made. The Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS National) can be reached on 131 450.
Accessibility
- Wheelchair-accessible entry and consulting rooms
- Accessible parking available at Annandale Central
- Please advise staff of any accessibility requirements when booking
Patient Rights & Responsibilities
As a patient at Annandale Doctors, you have the right to:
- Be treated with respect and dignity
- Receive safe and high-quality care
- Be informed about your health and treatment options
- Make decisions about your own healthcare
- Have your privacy and confidentiality respected
- Provide feedback or make a complaint without fear of reprisal
- Seek a second opinion
Patients are asked to:
- Treat staff and other patients with respect
- Attend appointments on time or notify the clinic if cancellation is needed
- Provide accurate and complete health information
- Follow agreed treatment plans and ask questions if unsure
- Keep contact details up to date
Privacy
The practice handles personal information in accordance with the Privacy Act 1988 and Australian Privacy Principles. Information is collected to provide healthcare and will not be disclosed to third parties without consent, except as required by law. Patients may request access to their health records in accordance with applicable legislation. A copy of the Privacy Policy is available at reception.
Feedback & Complaints
Patient feedback is valued and the practice is committed to continuous improvement. Patients may contact the Practice Manager by telephone on (07) 4420 1183. If you are not satisfied with the outcome, you may contact the Office of the Health Ombudsman on 133 646.
Communication
Telephone Calls
The reception team is available to take calls during clinic hours. Phone consultations are available for eligible patients — please ask reception when booking. For urgent medical concerns outside clinic hours, please contact House Call Doctor on 13 55 66 or Healthdirect on 1800 022 222.
Electronic Communication
Email is intended for administrative matters only and should not be used for medical emergencies, urgent medical advice, results discussion or medication requests. For urgent matters call the practice directly.
Acknowledgement of Country
Annandale Doctors acknowledges the Wulgurukaba and Bindal peoples as the Traditional Custodians of the Townsville region. Respect is paid to Elders past, present and emerging, and extended to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.