Most of us only think about our doctor when something goes wrong. But a doctor who knows you well can make those visits easier and less stressful. This is called continuity of care. It means building a long-term relationship with a GP who knows you and your family.
Warrandyte Road Clinic has served countless patients in the Ringwood community since 1913. Over these 100+ years, the doctors and nurses have earned a reputation for experience, care and professionalism.
What Is Continuity Of Care In General Practice?
Continuity of care means seeing the same doctor or practice over time, so your care stays connected. The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) describes it as a core part of general practice. It has three parts:
- A doctor who knows you. You build trust with one GP over many visits.
- Records in one place. Your doctor can see your medical history, past test results and past treatment.
- Care coordination. Your GP helps link your tests, referrals and specialist appointments.
Doctors may call these relational continuity, informational continuity and care coordination. You may also hear it described as having a regular GP or a family doctor.
Why Does Continuity Of Care Matter?
Research reviewed by the RACGP links continuity of care with better patient experiences and higher satisfaction. It also links it with people sticking to their treatment and with improved health outcomes.
This matters more as Australians age and live with ongoing health conditions, which ensures they receive the appropriate care they need. However, their particular treatments and results vary between people.
A long-term doctor–patient relationship can also make it easier to talk openly, because you know and trust each other. In everyday life, a regular GP can:
- know your medical history, so you don’t need to retell it at each visit
- help you monitor your health over time
- help you keep up with health checks and immunisations
- work with you to reduce lifestyle risks for long-term health problems
Who Benefits Most From Having A Family Doctor?
Anyone can benefit, but continuity of care can be especially useful at some life stages.
- Families with children. A family doctor can follow your child’s growth and childhood immunisations over time.
- People with long-term conditions. Regular reviews are easier when your GP knows your history. This can support chronic disease management.
- Older adults. Your doctor can look at changes in your health from one senior’s health check to the next.
- Women across life stages. From contraception to pregnancy care and menopause, a doctor who knows you can offer care that fits.
- Anyone focused on preventive health. Screening and checks can be easier to keep up with when one GP follows your history.
Continuity Of Care At Warrandyte Road Clinic
As one the longest-running medical centre in Ringwood, we’ve provided GP care for countless families for decades. If you’re shopping at the Eastland Shopping Centre Reserve, we’re only a six-minute walk away.
Our doctors care for people of all ages, so you can have a family doctor for every stage of life.
All of our doctors completed their medical training in Australia. They are also Fellows of the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners. They keep up regular continuing medical education and accreditation.
How To Get The Most From A Regular Gp
- Book with the same doctor when you can.
- Bring a list of your questions and the medicines you take.
- Mention changes in your health, even small ones.
- Ask which health checks suit your age and stage of life.
- Ask for a chaperone or bring a support person if that helps you feel at ease.
- Keep your contact details up to date with reception.
Your GP Is Your Partner In Long-Term Care
Continuity of care means a doctor who knows you and records that stay in one place. It also means care that fits together over time. A regular GP can support that, from childhood immunisations to health checks later in life.
At Warrandyte Road Clinic, our doctors care for families at every stage of life. If you’re looking for a GP in Ringwood, our doctors are here to help you. We also welcome new patients and families to the area.
When you’re ready, book online or phone 03 9870 9000.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a regular GP and continuity of care?
A regular GP is the doctor you see most often. Continuity of care is the wider benefit of that relationship. It means a doctor who knows you, records that stay up to date and care that links together over time.
You can have a regular GP and still see another doctor when yours isn’t available.
Do I have to see the same GP every time?
No. Many people see their regular GP most of the time, and that is what builds continuity. Appointments are by booking, and some are held for phone bookings.
If you can’t find a time with your doctor, call reception on 03 9870 9000. We’ll help you look for one.
Can I move my medical records to Warrandyte Road Clinic?
Yes. Complete the request for transfer of medical records form. We can then arrange for your records to come from your previous doctor. We also encourage new patients to fill in our online questionnaire before the first visit. You’ll find both on our New Patients and Families page.
What if I have several health concerns to talk about?
Please let us know when you book. A standard appointment is 10–15 minutes, so if you have more than one issue, you may need longer. Telling reception ahead of time helps your doctor plan the visit and run on time.
