Your Rights At The Doctor

Finding a GP

In Western Australia, there are multiple doctor practices and GPs that bulk bill (this is when you do not have to pay for the appointment). Bulk billing GPs are great for everyone, especially when you need a prescription refilled that is a quick and easy appointment (i.e a new subscription for the pill). You can usually find a bulk bill GP via google or making a simple phone call to the practice before booking. Make sure you bring you medicare card as this will be used to receive the bulk billing service.

However, being comfortable with your GP is an absolute must. You do not have to go to a GP that makes you feel uncomfortable even if they have been your family doctor for years. As a young woman, I prefer a female GP, especially when going for appointments such as cervical screening tests as they are invasive procedures. However, for casual check-ups and appointments such as the flu shot, I’m am not fused about visiting my family GP who is a male.

Can I go alone?

In Western Australia, there are no laws that prevent you from visiting a doctor without your parents or guardians. Once you are over the age of 18, you do not need the approval of a parent or guardian for any medical treatment. Under the age of 18, you can still consent without a parent or guardian depending on the type of treatment and whether your GP believes you understand the advantages and risks.

This may include

• Your age and maturity;

• Your independence – whether you live at home or support yourself;

• How serious the treatment is;

• Whether you understand the treatment and risks (for example, side effects and complications); and

• Your ability to appreciate the wider consequences of the treatment (for example, effects on your family and any long-term emotional impact).

Will my GP tell my parents if I go alone?

A doctor is usually required to maintain confidentiality, this means that after the appointment they are not allowed to discuss it with anyone. However, while this may be the case most of the time, if your doctor is concerned about your health and safety they may have a duty of care to report to another person or a government authority.

For Example:

• If your medical practitioner believes you are being sexually abused they must notify the Department for Child Protection and Family Support; 

• You have an infectious disease (for example, chlamydia, HIV, malaria or syphilis) your doctor must notify the Executive Director of Public Place;

• Your doctor thinks you might seriously hurt yourself or others, they may decide to warn that person, your parents or the police.

Things to remember

·      Never lie to your doctor, being open and honest is the best option for you to receive the appropriate treatment.

·      Be open and honest about you sexual experiences – for example-  if you have had unprotected sex and your doctor offers you a STI test, don’t lie about using protection.

·      If your doctor ever makes you feel uncomfortable you do not have to go back there.

·      You can ask your guardian to leave the room if you would like to talk to the doctor alone.

·      You are allowed to seek a second medical opinion.

·      It is your right to have your culture, identity, beliefs and choices recognised and respected.

·      It is your right to receive safe and high-quality health care that meets national standards.

·      It is your right to be treated with respect.

 Information received from:

https://yla.org.au/wa/topics/health-love-and-sex/your-rights-at-the-doctor/

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