FAQ

Have a question? We’ve got you covered!

Appointments

How can I make an appointment?

Appointments can be made
• phone directly to the surgery on 4038 2777
• book online at www.appletreemedical.com.au.
• press the book now button at the top of the page

Every effort will be made to accommodate your preferred time and doctor. We have a limited number of 'on the day' appointments for urgent matters and for unexpected walk in attendances at the surgery.

Apple Tree Medical offers phone appointments to regular patients. There are some restrictions on phone appointments and an in-person appointment may be necessary. Please phone reception if you are unsure.

What happens if I need an emergency appointment?

Emergency appointments will always be given priority. Our reception staff will attempt to contact you if there is any unforeseen delay or your doctor has been called away.
A standard consultation is designed for a single or uncomplicated matter. Longer appointments are available, so please let us know if you require extra time. Interpreter services are also available - please ask at reception.

If you are unable to attend an appointment, please call and cancel. 'No Show' fees may apply for non attendance.
We provide SMS appointment reminders, which are sent to you 1 business day before your appointment. Appointments can be cancelled or confirmed by return SMS. Please let reception know if you do not want to take advantage of this service.

Can I make a phone appointment?

Apple Tree Medical offers phone appointments to regular patients. There are some restrictions on phone appointments and an in-person appointment may be necessary. Please phone reception if you are unsure. Phone appointments can be made online also.

Please note that to access rebates for longer telephone consultations you will need to be registered with our Practice on your MyMedicare profile, see this link for more details: https://www.health.gov.au/our-work/mymedicare/patients

Do you accept walk-ins?

Apple Tree Medical provides care through booked appointments. Patients who arrive without a booking may be seen after a triage assessment. This will be dependent on the GPs availability at the time and severity of the medical concern.

After Hours, referrals and reminders

What are my options for after hours care?

If you require a Doctor after hours and it’s a Medical Emergency , please phone 000 or attend your nearest hospital.

If you are unsure if your medical condition is an emergency , phone 13HEALTH (13432584) for advice.

For all non-emergency medical care you can :
• Phone the clinic during our opening times to make an appointment or;
• book an online appointment at our website or using the book now button
• You could attend an after hours service who will provide us with a summary of your visit.
Cairns After Hours GP Clinic, Cairns Private Hospital– Ph 4052 5305
Cairns North Urgent Care Clinic, 7-11 Mt Millman Drive Smithfield. Ph (07) 4033 9900
Cairns South Urgent Care Clinic, 5b Walker Rd, Edmonton. Ph (07) 4015 2987

What happens if I need a home visit?

Home visits are available for regular patients whose condition prevents them from attending the surgery. If you feel you need please contact the surgery staff to discuss the issue. Additional charges may apply.

Can I get a referral without an appointment?

For regular patients with a relationship with a specialist we may be able to provide any additional referrals without the need to make an appointment..

Do I need to make an appointment for a Repeat Prescription?

Repeat Prescriptions without a consultation may be available at the doctor’s discretion and fees may apply

Does the Practice offer a reminder system?

Yes. Our practice is committed to preventative care. We will seek your permission to be included on our reminder system.

We may issue you with a reminder notice offering you preventative health services appropriate to your care.

If you do not wish to be part of this system, please let your doctor or receptionist know. Our practice also sends information to the Australian Childhood Immunisation Register and PAP Smear Register.

Communication

Can I call to speak with my Doctor?

IIf you need to speak with your GP, please book an appointment so your concerns can be given the proper time and attention. For urgent matters, let our reception team know straight away and they will ensure your care is managed appropriately.

Can I sen an email or use other instant messaging options?

Using an e-mail, facebook or other electronic messaging to communicate with your Doctor is not recommended as your privacy and confidentiality may be compromised. E-mails are not locked or encrypted and may be accessed by unknown persons

What is your policy with regard to Privacy?

We are committed to protecting your privacy and keeping your health information secure. We collect and use your information only for providing care, managing your treatment and meeting legal or clinical requirements. Access to your information is restricted to authorised staff, and we follow strict confidentiality procedures. Full details of our privacy policy are available on request from reception.We follow the National Privacy Principles set out at www.privacy.gov.au/health/index.html.

Apple Tree Medical
ph: 4038 2777 | fax: 4038 3077
2-6 Cumberland Avenue, Smithfield, Qld,4878
open: monday to friday 8am to 5pm