Having a regular GP means he or she can get to know you. Developing a relationship with a doctor will make you feel more comfortable and allow more open communication. The relationship builds mutual knowledge, understanding and trust.

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Having a regular GP will mean that you won’t have to repeat information about the medications you take, or your previous medical history, as your GP will always have this important information in your medical notes.

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Health is not just about treating and curing illness. It is also about taking sensible, preventative measures to ensure you can live your life in the best of health. GPs are involved in many preventative activities throughout a person’s life, such as:

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• advice on all types of immunisations to prevent diseases

• advice on how to prevent or detect early cancers such as skin checks, PAP smears and breast checks

• advice on how to reduce your risk for cardiovascular disease such as advice on how to give up smoking, lower your cholesterol, regular BP checks, how to maintain a healthy weight range.

• how to prevent diabetes and early detection of diabetes

• prevention of osteoporosis

Your GP is best placed to advise you what preventative activities are available for your stage of life.

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Your GP is the main person responsible for coordinating your care if your condition requires involvement of other health professionals. This could be a referral to a medical specialist, or allied health professionals such as a psychologist or podiatrist. Other health carers acknowledge this important role of your GP and therefore communicate details of any consultations with you to your GP.