Tool to streamline consults

Patients now have access to a step-by-step guide to help them get the most out of their visit to a GP

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Patients now have access to a step-by-step guide to help them get the most out of their visit to a general practitioner and improve shared care.

The Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care partnered with Healthdirect Australia to create the Question Builder web-based tool.

The tool gives patients a chance to think about the questions they would like to ask their GP or specialist, and to think about the questions they may be asked by their doctor.

Patients are guided through options that determine which type of appointment to book and the most important questions to ask first. Then they are given a list of questions to print or store, and take to their medical appointment.

“We know that time with a doctor is precious and Question Builder will help people make the most of it by coming to their medical appointment with questions they have regarding their care,” Commission CEO Adjunct Professor Debora Picone AM said.

“The best health care decisions are made when patients and healthcare practitioners make informed decisions together.”

Healthdirect Australia CEO Colin Seery said the tool will allow Australians to manage their own health and wellbeing, providing reassurance to patients and improving outcomes.

“This tool essentially assists the patient in discussing their health issue while giving the doctor a clear view of their concern. Decision-making on next steps can then be shared with a joint understanding from both parties,” Mr Seery said.