1. Confirm Your Appointment

• Double-check the date, time, and location of your appointment. For some appointments you will receive a text message the day before as a reminder.
• If you need to reschedule or cancel, please let us know as early as possible.

2. Bring Your Important Documents

• Health care card or Medicare card.
• Any referral letters from your doctor (if applicable).
• Your current medications – bring the packaging or a list with dosages
  (if applicable).
• Previous test results or reports relevant to your condition (if applicable).

3. Prepare Your Health Information

• Write down your symptoms, concerns and any questions you want to ask.
• Note any changes in your health since your last visit.
• Include any family medical history that might be relevant.

4. Plan Your Travel

• Check the best route to the clinic, whether by car, bus or community transport.
• Allow extra travel time for rural distances or weather conditions.
• If you need assistance getting here, contact us ahead of time for help.

5. Consider Bringing Support

• If you’d like, bring a family member, friend or carer to help you during your appointment.
• Let us know if you require an interpreter or any special support.

6. Arrive Early

• Arriving 10 -15 minutes before your appointment helps with paperwork and settling in.

7. Unwell/Illness

• Please call us to reschedule.
• You may be required to wear a mask.
• Inform us if you have cold or flu like symptoms or have been exposed to COVID-19 before your visit.

Speak Up and Ask Questions

At East Grampians Health Service, we want you to feel informed and confident about your care. Your appointment is a conversation. If you don’t understand something, please ask.

There are no silly questions.

If You’re Unsure, Please Ask

Medical information can sometimes feel overwhelming. If your clinician uses words or explanations that are unclear, you can say:

• Can you explain that in a different way?
• What does that mean for me?
• Can you write that down for me?
• What are my options?
• What happens if I choose not to have this treatment?

Check Your Understanding

Before you leave, make sure you understand:

• Your main health concern
• Any tests you need and why
• Your treatment options (including benefits and risks)
• What you need to do next
• When and how you will receive results
• Who to contact if you have questions later

You might find it helpful to repeat back what you’ve understood. For example: “So just to make sure I understand, I need to take this medication twice a day and come back in two weeks?”

We’re here to support you. Please speak up if you need more information.