Navigating the world of healthcare can feel overwhelming. Between long wait times, confusing systems, and trying to remember your symptoms when you finally get in front of your doctor, dealing with your GP (General Practitioner) isn’t always as straightforward as it should be.
But it can be easier. With a bit of preparation, a proactive attitude, and some clever tools (hello, online fax), you can take control of your GP visits and get the care you need without unnecessary stress.
Here’s how to do it.
1. Come Prepared — Seriously
Most GP appointments are short — typically 10 minutes. If you walk in unprepared, you’re likely to forget something important or leave feeling like you didn’t get the answers you were looking for.
Before your appointment:
- Write down your main concern(s). What’s bothering you? How long has it been going on?
- List all medications you’re taking (including over-the-counter and supplements).
- Note any allergies or reactions.
- Think about your top 1-2 questions or outcomes you want from the visit.
Being clear and focused helps your GP help you faster — and better.
2. Prioritize, Don’t Dump
If you show up with a list of 10 issues, your GP simply won’t have time to go through them all in one sitting. This isn’t because they don’t care — it’s because appointment slots are tightly scheduled.
Pick the most urgent issue first. If there’s time, you can touch on a second concern. For everything else, book a follow-up.
Pro tip: If you really need more time, ask if the clinic offers double appointments — some do, but you often need to request it ahead of time.
3. Be Honest, Even If It’s Embarrassing
We get it — it’s not always easy to talk about mental health, sexual health, or things you think you “shouldn’t” be feeling. But your GP has heard it all before. They’re not there to judge; they’re there to help.
Being vague or downplaying symptoms (like saying you’re “a bit tired” when you’re dealing with extreme fatigue) can lead to misdiagnosis or delayed treatment. Speak plainly. Say what’s really going on.
4. Ask for Clarification
If your doctor uses medical jargon or you don’t quite understand something, ask. It’s okay to say, “Can you explain that in simpler terms?” or “What does that mean for me?”
You’re not annoying them — you’re advocating for yourself.
Better yet, bring a notebook or use your phone to jot down notes during the appointment so you can remember what was said later.
5. Use Online Tools — Including Online Fax
Modern problems require modern solutions — and luckily, many GPs are now embracing digital tools to make your life easier.
One underrated tool? Online faxing.
While it might sound a bit retro, faxing is still widely used in healthcare because it’s secure, fast, and legally recognized. Instead of printing out a prescription or referral and physically taking it somewhere, many GPs can online fax it straight to a pharmacy or specialist.
You can also use an online fax service to:
- Receive prescriptions directly to your email (especially helpful for remote consultations).
- Send medical documents to your GP if you’re working with multiple providers.
- Request a prescription renewal from your GP by faxing them a formal note or document.
Online faxing is HIPAA-compliant, meaning it protects your privacy, and there are several services (like eFax, MyFax, or Fax.Plus) that let you send and receive faxes straight from your smartphone or computer.
If your GP offers this option, use it — it can save you a trip and speed up your treatment.
6. Request a Copy of Your Records
You’re entitled to access your medical records, and having them can help if you’re seeing multiple providers, moving to a new area, or managing a chronic condition.
Ask your GP’s office for a copy of your records. Some clinics offer online portals where you can download them yourself — others may email or fax them to you via secure channels.
Bonus: Keeping your own copy makes it easier to double-check things like medication names, test results, or past diagnoses.
7. Follow Up and Follow Through
Healthcare doesn’t end when you leave the doctor’s office. If your GP recommends a follow-up appointment, specialist referral, or test — book it and show up. If you’re confused about next steps, call the clinic and ask.
If you were prescribed medication, don’t just stop taking it halfway unless you’ve spoken to your doctor. If it’s not working or causing side effects, let them know.
And if you haven’t heard back about results? Don’t assume no news is good news. Give the clinic a call and follow up.
8. Know When to Escalate
If you’re consistently unhappy with how your GP treats you — maybe they’re rushed, dismissive, or not listening — it’s okay to switch. You deserve to be heard and treated with respect.
Look for another GP in your area or consider a private consultation if that’s within your budget. You can also file a complaint with your local health authority if something feels seriously wrong.
The Bottom Line
Your GP should be your partner in health, not someone you feel intimidated or confused by. With a little preparation, honest communication, and smart tools like online faxing for prescriptions and medical documents, you can get the care you need with a lot less hassle.
Take charge of your health — one appointment at a time.
