What Happens at Your First GP Appointment? A Guide for New Patients

Starting with a new GP can feel a little daunting — especially if you haven't had a regular doctor before, or if it's been a while. You might wonder what they'll ask, what you need to bring, or whether you'll have to repeat your entire medical history from scratch.

The good news? A first appointment is mostly a conversation. It's a chance for your new GP to get to know you, and for you to get to know them.

Here's exactly what to expect.

Before your appointment: what to bring

Coming prepared makes your first visit smoother and more productive. Here's what to bring if you have it:

Medicare card and any concession cards

Your Medicare card is essential for billing. If you hold a Health Care Card, Pension Concession Card, or DVA card, bring those too — they may affect your billing arrangements.

A list of your current medications

Include the name, dose, and how often you take each one. If you're not sure, bring the actual boxes or bottles. Don't forget supplements, vitamins, and over-the-counter medications.

Previous test results or specialist letters

If you've had recent blood tests, imaging, or specialist appointments, bring copies if you have them. Your new GP can also request records from your previous practice, but having them on hand speeds things up.

Your immunisation history

Particularly relevant for children, but useful for adults too — especially if you're unsure whether you're up to date on tetanus, flu, or other vaccines.

A list of questions or concerns

It sounds simple, but writing down what you want to discuss before you arrive means you won't forget anything important once you're in the room.

What your GP will ask at a first appointment

Your first appointment is largely about building a picture of your health. Your GP will typically ask about:

Your reason for visiting today

Even if it's just a general check-up, your GP will want to know what prompted you to come in. Be honest — there's no such thing as a silly reason to see your doctor.

Your medical history

This includes any past illnesses, surgeries, hospitalisations, or significant health events. You don't need to remember every detail — your GP will guide the conversation.

Family history

Certain conditions run in families — heart disease, diabetes, some cancers, and mental health conditions among them. Your GP may ask about the health of your parents and siblings.

Lifestyle factors

Expect questions about smoking, alcohol, diet, exercise, and sleep. These aren't judgements — they're important context for understanding your overall health and risk factors.

Mental health

A good GP will ask about your mental health and wellbeing, not just your physical symptoms. This is a normal part of holistic care.

What might happen during the appointment

Depending on your reason for visiting and your health history, your GP may:

• Take your blood pressure, weight, and other basic measurements
• Order blood tests or other investigations — particularly if you're new to the practice and they want a baseline picture of your health
• Discuss a Health Assessment — if you're over 45, or in certain other groups, you may be eligible for a Medicare-funded health assessment
• Refer you to a specialist or allied health provider — if something needs further investigation or treatment
• Update or review your medications — if you're on regular prescriptions, your GP will want to review these

How long does a first appointment take?

A first appointment is usually longer than a standard visit — typically 20 to 30 minutes. This gives your GP time to take a proper history and get to know you, rather than rushing through a checklist.

If you have multiple concerns, it's worth mentioning them at the start of the appointment so your GP can prioritise and manage time accordingly. For complex issues, they may ask you to book a longer appointment or come back for a follow-up.

What if you're nervous?

It's completely normal to feel a little anxious about seeing a new doctor — particularly if you're discussing something personal or sensitive.

A few things that might help:

• Write things down beforehand — it's easier to hand over a note than to say something out loud for the first time
• Bring a support person — you're welcome to bring a family member or friend if that makes you more comfortable
• Ask questions — if you don't understand something your GP says, ask them to explain it differently. There are no stupid questions.
• Be honest — your GP can only help you effectively if they have the full picture. Everything you share is confidential.

Building a long-term relationship with your GP

The first appointment is just the beginning. The real value of having a regular GP comes over time — as they get to know your health history, your family, your lifestyle, and your preferences.

That's why continuity matters. A GP who has seen you through a difficult diagnosis, a pregnancy, or a period of poor mental health is better placed to support you than one who meets you for the first time at each visit.

At The Oaks General Practice, our team is committed to long-term care. Our GPs chose the Illawarra community — and they're here to stay.

Ready to book your first appointment?

New patients are welcome at The Oaks General Practice in Oak Flats. We serve patients from across the Shellharbour LGA, including Albion Park, Shell Cove, Warilla, Flinders, Calderwood, and Mt Warrigal.

Book your first appointment today — online via HotDoc or by calling (02) 4257 1234. We look forward to meeting you.