What should I bring to a GP appointment?

Bring your Medicare card (or OSHC/DVA card), a list of your current medications, any referral letters or test results, your health concerns written down, and a pen for notes. If it's your first visit to a new GP, also bring any relevant medical records or a summary from your previous doctor.

Do I need to bring my Medicare card every time?

Yes. Your GP practice needs your Medicare card to process your claim and any bulk billing. You can use the Medicare app on your phone to show your digital Medicare card if you don't have the physical card with you.

What to Bring to Your GP Appointment — Checklist

Every visit

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Medicare cardOr show your digital card in the Medicare/myGov app — see how to add your Medicare card to your phone wallet. In NZ, bring your Community Services Card if you have one.

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Medication listAll current medications, doses, and how often you take them — including vitamins and supplements. Use our Medication List tool to create one.

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Your questions written downWrite your main concern first. GPs appreciate patients who come prepared. Use our Appointment Prep Sheet to organise your thoughts.

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PhoneFor booking follow-ups, saving referral details, and showing your GP any photos of symptoms (rashes, injuries, etc.).

If you have them

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Referral lettersFrom a specialist, hospital discharge summary, or previous GP.

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Test resultsBlood tests, imaging, or pathology from other providers. Most results go electronically to your GP, but bring any you received directly.

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Hospital discharge papersIf you've recently been in hospital or had surgery — the discharge summary has important medication changes and follow-up instructions.

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DVA / concession cardVeterans' Affairs Gold or White card, Health Care Card, Pensioner Concession Card, or Commonwealth Seniors Health Card.

First visit to a new GP

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Medical history summaryMajor conditions, surgeries, allergies, family history. If your previous GP can transfer your records, even better — ask them before you switch.

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Immunisation recordsEspecially for children. Your records are on the Australian Immunisation Register (accessible via myGov) or in NZ via your Well Child book.

For specific appointments

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Blood test — fasting required?If your GP asked you to fast, don't eat for 10–12 hours before your blood test. Water is fine. See our fasting blood test guide.

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Pregnancy visitBring your antenatal record/pregnancy book, any ultrasound images, and your partner if they'd like to be involved.

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Mental health appointmentIf you've been tracking your mood or have a diary, bring it. If you're seeing a new GP about mental health, it's okay to write down what you want to say — many people find it easier than saying it on the spot.