FAQs - Frequently Asked Questions & Answers

Frequently Asked Questions

Walk-In Appointments

The doctors here welcome walk-in patients; however, please be advised that wait times may occur. As they primarily operate by appointments, there could be occasions where accommodating walk-ins may not be possible. The doctors appreciate your understanding and encourage you to schedule appointments for more timely and efficient service.

How can I make an appointment?

You do not need a referral letter to attend a Next Practice medical centre. All appointments can be easily booked online on our website. If you need help booking an appointment please contact a friendly Patient Advocate by phone.

What is MyMedicare?

MyMedicare is a new voluntary patient registration model. It aims to strengthen and formalise the relationship between patients, the medical services clinic, general practitioner (GP) and primary care teams. Evidence shows that seeing the same GP and healthcare team regularly leads to better health outcomes for patients.

You can formally register with the medical services clinic or register with your preferred GP from 1 October 2023.

Learn more about how to register on our MyMedicare at Next Practice page. Or you can contact the Patient Advocates at the clinic directly for more information.

How can I reschedule or cancel an appointment?

If you need to reschedule or cancel your appointment, please notify the clinic at least one business day prior to the appointment, during business hours. You also have the option after-hours to reschedule or cancel via your appointment confirmation email.

‍

How can I share a compliment or complaint?

We strive to provide the best possible service and we always want to know how you feel so please email or phone us via the contact details available on our website. Alternatively you can talk to your doctor or one of our Patient Advocates in the clinic.

We take your concern, suggestions and complaints seriously. If you wish to discuss the matter outside of the clinic you can contact the Health Care Complaints Commission:

E: hccc@hccc.nsw.gov.au

T: 1800 043 159

M: PO Box K549
Haymarket NSW 1240

How do integrative medical practitioners approach healthcare?

Integrative medicine combines the best of both conventional and evidence based complementary medicine for a truly holistic approach to your health. With a focus on addressing the causes of illness and the impact of lifestyle on well being, the integrative medical practitioners at this clinic work with the individual to develop a personalised program that may include lifestyle recommendations involving sleep, diet modification and stress management, nutrient and herbal supplements to help you be the best you can be.

What if I need after-hours care?

If you require medical advice outside our normal clinic hours, please contact 13 SICK (137 425) or go to www.homedoctor.com.au

Do you have a cancellation policy?

Your appointment time is reserved specifically for you. If you can cancel at short notice, it is difficult for someone else to use your appointment time. As such, there is a cancellation fee.

If, for some reason you need to cancel or reschedule the appointment, please give us at least 24 hours' notice. If you give less than 24 hours' notice, then a cancellation fee will be charged.

‍

What are the benefits of Acupuncture?

Acupuncture is used to treat a wide variety of health conditions including but not limited to fatigue, digestive issues, chronic pain and allergies. If you would like to know if Acupuncture can benefit a health condition other than those listed above, please call the clinic.

What is WSIH Care? How can I access the WSIH Care Program?

The Care team is here to provide relaxation and relief from cancer or treatment-related symptoms. People with cancer are eligible for a limited number of subsidised treatments through the WSIH Care Foundation. This foundation provides funding to subsidise a total of 3 appointments of supportive cancer care per patient, all year round. This includes Acupuncture, Private Yoga Therapy and Oncology Massage Therapy.

To book a WSIH Care funded appointment, please contact the clinic via phone on (02) 9145 1290 or you may book on our website by selecting appointments that include "Funded by WSIH Care". Please visit our Cancer support services page for more information.

‍

Do I need a referral to book an appointment?

Patients do not require a referral to book an appointment, unless you are seeing a Psychologist. However, if you would like to book an appointment under the WSIH Care program then you will need a referral from your GP or Oncologist. Please visit our Cancer support services page for more information.

What sort of patients are suitable for Western Sydney Integrative Health?

Western Sydney Integrative Health welcomes anyone who is interested in optimal health and wellbeing. Our expertise includes:

Cancer survivorship care
Cardiovascular risk management
Mental health
Persistent pain and fatigue
Women’s health conditions such as PCOS, menopause, menstrual problems.

‍

Why should I refer to Western Sydney Integrative Health?

Western Sydney Integrative Health offers non-drug approaches which can support the care of people with chronic disease such as chronic pain, people at risk of cardiovascular disease, and mental health conditions.

We make no claims of cure of chronic disease. Instead we aim to:

Build physical health and wellbeing through lifestyle changes and mindful movement
Build mental wellbeing and fitness
Relieve symptoms

We believe this adjunctive and supportive approach can enhance the care of your patient and improve health outcomes.

Western Sydney Integrative Health is led by medical doctors who have consulted extensively with their colleagues. Doctors at this location may offer you the following advantages:

medical oversight
risk management framework
use of evidence to assist shared decision making
communication with you about your patients’ care
a team of highly qualified practitioners, many of whom have PhDs in their field

collaborative care of complex patients
subsidised fees and innovative group programs for affordable care
clear policies about credentialing and scope of practice
opportunity to contribute to research

Western Sydney Integrative Health welcomes collaborations and partnerships with clinicians and institutions.

‍

What is the best way to get to the clinic?

Next Practice WSIH is located at 158 Hawkesbury Rd, Westmead NSW 2145, inside of the NICM Health Research Institute building. When you walk inside the building, the clinic is in the first door on the left.

Public transport

The clinic is conveniently located across the road from Westmead Train Station. Buses run along Darcy Road and Alexandra Avenue.

Driving to the clinic

There is street parking along Alexandra Avenue and two-hour parking in surrounding streets. We suggest you arrive early to your consult and check the parking signs.

Where to park

The Innovation Quarter building next door has parking available with the first hour free.

The car park is open 7 Days a week, from 6am to 10pm, and entry is via Farm House Road. There are 35 public car park bays available, and these are marked with “visitor parking”. Click to learn more about parking costs - https://www.iqwestmead.com.au/...

Do you accept new patients?

The doctors at this location accept new patients and are delighted you have chosen to receive your care at Next Practice. When booking a new patient consultation, please ensure that you arrive early to fill in the new patient form and get yourself acquainted with the clinic.

To give you the best care possible, the practitioners take time to understand your medical history, key health information and measurements such as height, weight and blood pressure. On your arrival, you will be greeted by a Patient Advocates who will ask you to complete a new patient form using an iPad. Don't worry the technology is easy and if you need help with it your Patient Advocate will be pleased to assist.

What if I need an interpreter service?

If you, or a family member, need an interpreter for your appointment, please let the Patient Advocates know at the time of making your appointment.

What are your opening hours?

Monday - Closed

Tuesday - 9:00am - 5:00pm

Wednesday - 9:00am - 5:00pm

Thursday - 9:00am - 6:30pm

Friday - 9:00am - 5:00pm

Saturday - Closed

Sunday - Closed

How will I receive test results?

You will be given any test results by your regular doctor, unless agreed otherwise. Please note that they will need to be viewed by a doctor prior to releasing.

How can I request a repeat or refill prescription?

For most repeat prescriptions you will need to make an appointment to see your regular doctor to discuss your needs. By making an appointment for prescriptions, your doctor is better able to care for you. The GPs at this location are also able to offer Telehealth consultations. These are useful and popular for follow up appointments.You can also request a script refill for regular medication through your Next Practice Patient App (available on Apple and Android store).

How will I receive my appointment confirmation and reminders?

When you make a booking you will receive a confirmation email at the time of booking. You will also receive a reminder for your appointment five days prior to your appointment, and again 24 hours prior to your appointment.

How do I receive a bill or make a payment?

The billing policy is simple and clear. The GPs endeavour to be transparent and affordable whilst providing a high quality service. Please refer to the fees page on our website for more details. The doctors here accept payment by credit and debit card through an EFTPOS terminal for Visa and Mastercard cards. They do not take cash payments and no cash is held on premises.

What if I am seriously unwell?

In the event of a medical emergency, please call 000 or attend your nearest hospital.

How do I receive a referral to other services or practitioners?

Your current doctor may refer you to another practitioner or specialist in order to best support and manage your condition. Referrals can be discussed during your consultation with the GPs at the clinic.

How should I communicate with the care team between appointments?

You can email the clinic your questions using the contact details on our website. Please allow 48 hours response time to emails. If you require urgent assistance please inform your Patient Advocate.

Always call 000 in the event of a medical emergency.

‍