General information only, not medical advice – talk to your doctor about your health and any symptoms.
Last reviewed: 11 October 2026 · Published by Australian Men's Performance and Health Association Inc
Having a regular GP is one of the most useful things you can do for your health. A doctor who knows your history can spot changes over time, coordinate tests and referrals, and make it easier to raise concerns early. Yet many men only see a doctor when something is wrong, often at whichever clinic has a free slot.
This guide offers practical, general tips for finding a GP who suits you, checking their registration and getting the most from your first appointment.
Why a regular GP matters
Seeing the same GP over time means your doctor builds a picture of your health, your family history and what is normal for you. That makes it easier to notice when something has changed and to have conversations about sensitive topics.
A regular GP can also coordinate your care if you see specialists, use telehealth services or have tests done elsewhere, so nothing falls through the cracks. Over the years, that relationship often becomes the difference between concerns being picked up early and being left until they are harder to deal with.
Where to look
The healthdirect service finder is a free, government-funded way to search for GPs by location. Word of mouth helps too: ask friends, family or colleagues who they see and what they like about their clinic.
Practical factors matter as well. A clinic close to home or work, with appointment times that fit your schedule, is one you are more likely to actually visit. Many clinics offer online booking and some offer telehealth for suitable follow-ups.
If you live in a regional or rural area, choice can be more limited. Telehealth with a registered doctor can help for suitable appointments, and your local pharmacy or health service can often point you towards clinics that are taking new patients.
Check registration
Every doctor practising in Australia must be registered with the Medical Board of Australia through AHPRA. You can search any doctor by name on the free public register of practitioners and see their registration type and any conditions.
Checking takes a minute and is worth doing for any doctor you plan to see regularly, especially if you found them through advertising.
Questions worth asking
When you call or book, it is reasonable to ask about fees and whether the clinic bulk bills, how long a standard appointment is, whether longer appointments are available, and how the clinic handles results and follow-up. Clear answers are a good sign.
If you have particular needs, such as evening appointments, telehealth options or a doctor with an interest in men’s health, ask up front. Clinics are used to these questions.
Making the most of your first visit
Mention when booking if you would like a general health check or have several things to discuss, so the clinic can allow enough time. Bring a list of any medicines, supplements or other products you use, along with notes about anything you have noticed, such as changes in sleep, energy or mood.
Be direct about why you are there. GPs discuss sensitive topics every day, and the more open you are, the more useful the appointment will be. If you do not understand something, ask for it to be explained again.
If the fit is not right
You are free to change doctors at any time, and finding the right fit can take a couple of tries. You can ask for your records to be transferred to a new clinic. What matters is that you end up with a doctor you feel comfortable talking to honestly.
It is also fine to seek a second opinion about any significant decision. A good GP will support that and will not take it personally. Confidence in your doctor comes from feeling heard, having things explained clearly and being involved in decisions about your own care.
How AMPHA can help
If you would like help finding a registered doctor in Queensland or New South Wales, you can send AMPHA a referral enquiry and we will be in touch. A referral enquiry is optional, and you are always free to choose your own doctor. AMPHA may receive fees for referring people to partner clinics, such as Third Spring Medical, and we disclose this openly.
Frequently asked questions
How do I check a GP is registered?
Search their name on the free AHPRA public register of practitioners. It shows whether they are currently registered and any conditions on their registration.
What should I ask about fees?
Ask whether the clinic bulk bills, what a standard and longer appointment costs, and what Medicare rebate applies, so there are no surprises.
Can I change GPs?
Yes. You can see a different GP at any time and ask for your records to be transferred to your new clinic.
Do I need a reason to book?
No. You can book a general health check at any time. Mention it when booking so the clinic allows enough time.
Related reading
Talk to your doctor
This article is general information only and cannot assess your individual situation. If you have questions about your health or notice changes that concern you, please talk to your doctor. A registered doctor can take your history, examine you and decide what, if anything, is appropriate for you. In an emergency, call 000.
AMPHA may receive fees for referring people to partner clinics, such as Third Spring Medical. Information on this site is general in nature and is not medical advice.