Accreditation practice pointer: our patients can request their preferred practitioner.

GP2.1 A  Our patients can request their preferred practitioner.

RACGP Standards for general practice, 5th edition.

Ideally, patients can book appointments with their preferred GP. It is evident that patients who see the same GP over a period of time are less likely to be admitted to hospital or present to ED. Therefore, practices must maintain processes whereby patients can see their regular GP whenever possible. 

This can be achieved by recording in patients’ health records the name of the consulting GP. Patients could also be asked which GP they would like to see when they are making an appointment. Practices should ensure patients are aware of their online booking system, if they use one.  

Practices might communicate with patients when GPs are taking leave or if they leave the practice via display notices in the waiting room and on their website.