General Health Checks and GP Care in Wollongong
Our GPs at Illawarra General Practice provide everyday medical care for individuals and families in Wollongong and across the Illawarra. Whether you have a new health concern, need a general health check or want advice on staying well, your GP can assess your needs and help you plan the next steps.
General consultations are bulk billed for patients with a valid Medicare card. Fees may apply for some services, such as medicals for work or insurance and some vaccines.
What can I see a GP about?
You can see a GP about almost any health concern. Your GP will listen to your symptoms, examine you where needed, and discuss diagnosis, treatment and follow-up with you.
Common reasons patients book a general consultation include:
- Coughs, colds, sore throats and other infections
- Minor injuries, aches and pains
- Skin concerns, rashes and new or changing spots
- Tiredness, headaches or changes in your general health
- Repeat prescriptions and medication reviews
- Test results and follow-up after a hospital or specialist visit
- Medical certificates
General health checks and health assessments
A general health check is a chance to review your overall health with your GP, even if you feel well. It can help identify risk factors early and give you clear, practical guidance on looking after your health.
What happens during a health check?
Depending on your age, history and health, your GP may:
- Ask about your medical and family history, medications and lifestyle
- Check your blood pressure, weight and other measurements
- Discuss screening that may be appropriate for you, such as blood tests, cervical screening or bowel cancer screening
- Review your vaccinations
- Talk through any concerns and agree on next steps
Medicare-funded health assessments
Some groups are eligible for longer, Medicare-funded health assessments. These include people aged 75 and over, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, and some people aged 45 to 49 who are at risk of developing a chronic condition. Ask our reception team or your GP whether you may be eligible.
Ongoing care for long-term conditions
If you live with a condition such as diabetes, asthma or heart disease, your GP can work with you on a GP chronic condition management plan. The plan sets out your health goals and care, and can include referrals to eligible allied health services.
Referrals to specialists and other services
When you need further investigation or specialist care, your GP can refer you to specialists, allied health professionals, imaging and diagnostic services. Your GP will explain why the referral is recommended and what to expect, and can help coordinate your care afterwards.
Onsite pathology and blood tests
Our practice has an onsite pathology collection service provided by 4Cyte Pathology. If your GP requests blood tests or other pathology, you can often have your sample collected at the practice rather than travelling to a separate collection centre.
Your GP will let you know if you need to fast or prepare before your test, and will discuss your results with you.
Medicals for work, sport and insurance
Our GPs can conduct medical examinations for a range of purposes, including pre-employment and workplace medicals, sports participation and insurance assessments. Please let reception know the type of medical and bring any forms you've been given when you book.
Medicare does not generally cover medicals required for employment or insurance, so a fee applies. Our reception team can confirm the cost when you book.
Travel health advice and vaccinations
If you are travelling overseas, your GP can review your travel plans and health, and discuss which vaccinations and precautions may be recommended for your destination.
Some vaccines need more than one dose or take time to become effective, so it's a good idea to book a travel health appointment well before you leave. Some travel vaccines are not covered by Medicare, and your GP can discuss any costs with you.
When should I see a GP, and when do I need urgent care?
Book a GP appointment for new symptoms that aren't an emergency, ongoing health concerns, check-ups and repeat care.
Call 000 or go to the Emergency Department at Wollongong Hospital if you or someone else has chest pain, difficulty breathing, signs of a stroke, severe bleeding, a serious injury or any other life-threatening emergency.
For non-urgent care outside our opening hours, contact Radio Doctor on 02 4228 5522.
Frequently asked questions
It depends on your age, health and family history. Your GP can recommend how often you should have a check and which screening tests may be right for you.
Yes. General consultations are bulk billed for patients with a valid Medicare card. Fees apply for some services, such as medicals for work or insurance, and some vaccines may have a cost.
Yes. 4Cyte Pathology provides an onsite collection service at our practice. Your GP will give you a pathology request form if tests are needed.
Book as early as you can once your travel plans are set. Some vaccines need several doses over a number of weeks, so leaving it too late can limit your options.
Bring photo identification, any forms provided by your employer, sporting organisation or insurer, your glasses if you wear them, and a list of your medications.