General Clinic Information

Cost of consultation

There is no charge for the consultation. Family Planning NSW requests that clients make a voluntary, annual contribution of $20 ($15 for Health Card holders). This is not compulsory, and the amount you give is entirely up to you, amounts over $2 are tax deductible.

All contributions are used to support, sustain and provide quality services, scholarships to health professionals and to fund sexual and reproductive health research.

Charges for prescription items and other supplies

Family Planning NSW charge for prescription and non-prescription items. Prices are comparable to those charged by most Pharmacies. Health Card holders are usually given a prescription for their local Pharmacy to supply medications.

Care outside of normal opening hours

Family Planning NSW clinics do not provide 24 hour care or home visits. If you require urgent care contact your nearest after hours medical centre, the emergency department of your local hospital or call 000 for an ambulance.

Pathology tests

If you need pathology tests your Medicare card is required so the pathology tests can be bulk-billed. If you do not have a Medicare card please advise the doctor or nurse during the consultation so that arrangements can be made for payment.

Pap and pathology test results

You will receive your Pap test result by mail; this usually takes 3-4 weeks. You will only be contacted regarding other tests if the result if not normal. If necessary a follow-up visit will be organised by the doctor or nurse at the time of the call. If you want to call for results a doctor or nurse will usually give these over the telephone.

X-ray films and reports

Once viewed by the doctor x-ray films are to be kept by you. The x-ray report remains the property of Family Planning NSW and will be kept on your file.

Reminder/recall system

If it is necessary for you to return for a follow-up consultation you will be advised of this during the initial consultation. If you do not return for the follow-up visit you will be sent a reminder letter.

Management of your medical record

Your medical record is a confidential document and we are committed to maintaining this and meeting all legislative requirements. Your record is the property of Family Planning NSW and is kept for seven years after your last visit. If you wish to see your file you can do so in the presence of the doctor or nurse.

Your rights as a client

We value your comments and suggestions to monitor and improve our service. We also take your concerns, complaints and suggestions seriously. Please use the suggestion box in the waiting room to let us know how you feel about our service. Should you request a response the Centre Manager will contact you within a week. Also, please feel free to raise any concerns you might have with the doctor or nurse during your consultation.

Information on the Health Care Complaints Unit is available in our waiting room.