For routine health issues standard appointments are available daily.

Most Practitioners are 15min standard consultations which is suitable for single / acute issues. 

Some Practitioners do long consultations as standard – aligned with attention to wholistic health care.

Issues that typically are not recommended for a standard appointment time are:

• Mental Health appointment
• This is because discussing mental health issues are a sensitive subject and are not readily explored in just 15 minutes.
• • Care Plans require us to confirm your eligibility prior; as well as take some preparation.
  • Typically our doctors will actually request a followup appointment even to ensure that your needs are met.
• GP Chronic Condition Management Plan – GPCCMP
  • These are specific Medicare Item numbers that require criteria to be met; as well as to ensure that you’re eligible for this service.

If you require a repeat script or referral and have had a consultation in our clinic in the past 6 to 12 months, our Doctor’s may be able to provide the script without the need for a consultation. On these occasions, there is a $25 script fee payable on pick up of script, or a $35 referral fee payable upon submission of referral. This service is not available from all Doctor’s and some instances may require an appointment be set.

For more information, please contact our helpful receptionists on 07 4281 6959.

A standard appointment is suitable for most skin checks (15min).

Ideally a skin check should be it’s own appointment to ensure that adequate time and care is dedicated to this important screening check.

Skin Checks are available through Dr Katherine Holzhauser.

Contraception, Pre-conception advice, Women’s Health Checks, Cervical Screening and Menopause Management.

Cervical Screening previous known as a ‘Pap Smear.’

• All of our GP’S can provide cervical screening
• Nurse Sylvia is also available to perform your cervical screening test if you would prefer to take more consultation time with your doctor
• Screening starts at age 25
• Tests are now 5 yearly if normal
• Self-testing is available under certain circumstances; but having it performed by a health professional is still best-practice and our recommendation

For the latest information you can find it here: health.gov.au/getting-a-cervical-screening-test

We recommend a 30min consultation for a Women’s health check.

We can provide:

• Implanon insertion / removal
• IUD insertion / removal
• Discuss with your doctor what the best contraceptive choice for you

Pre-conception Advice
Depending upon your level of concern, number of questions and/or if you have any significant medical / gynaecology history booking a 30min appointment may be a good idea to ensure you don’t feel rushed.

Our GP’s working in the clinic are supportive of children by choice and are providers of MTOP (Medical Termination Of Pregnancy) Ask for a long appointment for MTOP and we can provide you with information & costs.

All of our doctors provide antenatal and postnatal care.

Options in Cairns for Antenatal Care are:

• Public Hospital Based Antenatal Care
• Midwifery Group Practice (Public Hospital Midwife service)
• GP Shared Care
  • Your GP provides your antenatal care, in conjunction with Hospital based appointments (typically the hospital will see you for a booking visit ~ 15-16 weeks, 28 weeks (sometimes), 36 weeks and 41 weeks if you haven’t delivered yet)
• Private Obstetric Care – No longer available locally – Closest is Townsville

If you have just had a baby it is recommend you have a 7 day baby check – We recommend you book an appointment for both mum and bub (15min each) as this can be a stressful time and having a full 30min to address both you and your babies health needs can help to ensure you can ask any questions and feel supported at this time.

We offer a weekly weigh-in service, for babies from birth to 8 weeks for our new parents – you can bring your baby in on a Thursday (appointments essential) with one of our nurses so that we can perform weight/height and head circumference measurements.

All National immunisation Program vaccinations are able to be provided in house.

We also carry private stock of vaccinations that may be recommended, but are not covered by the National Immunisation Program – ask your doctor what other vaccinations may be available so that you can make an informed choice.

Childhood vaccinations are recommended at:

• 6-8 weeks
• 4 months
• 6 months
• 12 months
• 18 months
• 2 years (ATSI only)
• 4 years

School Based Immunisations (Grade 7) can be provided – but prior arrangement with our nurses is required to obtain the appropriate vaccines to be ordered in.

All children under the age of 5 are eligible for a funded Influenza vaccination.

Our doctors can provide you with Travel Vaccination and General advice.

All adults over the age of 65 are eligible for a funded influenza vaccination, as well as those with specific medical conditions. Check with our nurse/doctor if you’re eligible.

We understand that discussing mental health can be both daunting and difficult at times.

We strongly encourage a 30min appointment at minimum.

If you are seeking a Mental Health Care Plan – this needs to be discussed with your doctor prior to booking – as it is essential we confirm that you’re eligible for this service.

Mental Health Care Plan – can be prepared every 12 months (from the date when it was last done; not Calendar year) – which gives you access to 6 sessions with an approved provider (eg. psychologist).

Mental Health Care Plan Reviews – ideally should be performed by the same provider, which can be at earliest 1 month from the original plan, and then again at 3 months after this. This gives you access to an additional four sessions, and then a further 10 sessions after a second review.

Mental Health Care Plans

• • Medicare check needs to be performed to ensure eligibility
  • Can be prepared every 12 months (from the date when it was last done; not Calendar year) – which gives you access to an initial 6 sessions with an approved provider (eg. psychologist).
  • Mental Health Care Plan Reviews – ideally should be performed by the same provider, which can be at earliest 1 month from the original plan, and then again at 3 months after this. This gives you access to an additional four sessions.

Eating Disorder Care Plans

• • These are very specific and details plans and typically require a Multidisciplinary Team Approach, including psychologist, dietitian and psychiatrist
  • Preparation will typically occur over more than one appointment

There are a number of excellent online resources available for Mental Health Support. Here are some links to a few of those that may be recommended to you by your doctor; and are a good starting point if you’re seeking help:

• www.headtohealth.gov.au
  • This is a gateway search site to multiple (including those listed below) websites for mental health support
• www.moodgym.com.au
• www.thiswayup.org.au
• www.mycompass.org.au
  • For Adults aged 18-75 years
• www.headspace.org.au
  • For younger-persons, 16-25 years
• au.reachout.com
  • For younger persons, 16-25 years
• brave4you.psy.uq.edu.au
  • For younger persons, with separate programs / information for ages 3-7, then 8-12, and those 12-17 years

Our GP’s can provide:

• Skin biopsies
• Skin cancer excisions
• Toe nail resections
• Incision and drainage of abscesses
• Iron infusions
• Saline infusion for hyperemesis gravidarum
• Implanon Insertion +/- Removal
• IUD insertion (removal is simple and doesn’t require a procedure to be booked)
• Spirometry
• ECG’s

Integrating elements of health coaching, psychology and traditional medicine – Dr. Katherine can help you to achieve your health goals using principles of lifestyle change.

Different fee structure and support is provided as a package with these clinics.

We recommend a 45min initial appointment.

Hypnotherapy is sought out for a variety of reasons ranging from addressing specific issues to enhancing overall well-being.

Some common reasons individuals seek hypnotherapy include:

• Smoking cessation: Many turn to hypnotherapy to break free from the grip of nicotine addiction and quit smoking for good.
• Weight management: Hypnotherapy can help individuals develop healthier eating habits, overcome emotional eating, and maintain long-term weight loss.
• Stress and anxiety: Hypnotherapy offers effective techniques for reducing stress levels, managing anxiety, and promoting relaxation.
• Phobias and fears: Whether it’s fear of flying, spiders, or public speaking, hypnotherapy can help individuals overcome phobias and irrational fears.
• Pain management: Hypnotherapy techniques can be utilised to alleviate chronic pain, manage discomfort during medical procedures, and promote overall pain relief.
• Improved sleep: Hypnotherapy can address underlying issues contributing to sleep disturbances, such as insomnia, or nightmares.
• Boosting confidence and self-esteem: Hypnotherapy empowers individuals to overcome self-doubt, build self-confidence, and cultivate a positive self-image.
• Enhancing performance: Whether in sports, academics, or the workplace, hypnotherapy can help individuals tap into their full potential, improve focus, and enhance performance outcomes.
• Managing habits and behaviours: From nail-biting to procrastination, hypnotherapy can assist individuals in breaking unwanted habits and replacing them with healthier alternatives.
• Exploration and personal growth: Some individuals seek hypnotherapy as a tool for self-exploration, inner healing, and personal development, enabling them to gain deeper insights into themselves and their life paths.

What to expect during your visit:

During a hypnotherapy session, you can expect a supportive and non-judgmental environment conducive to relaxation and self-discovery. Typically, the session begins with a discussion between yourself and Dr. Oscar, to identify goals, concerns, and areas for improvement. This dialogue establishes trust and ensures that the session is tailored to your specific needs. As the session progresses, Dr. Oscar guides you into a state of calm and deep relaxation, often through gentle imagery and soothing language. In this heightened state of awareness, the subconscious mind becomes more receptive to positive suggestions and therapeutic interventions.

Throughout the process, you will remain in control and fully aware, participating actively in your own journey. After the session, it’s common to feel refreshed, rejuvenated, and equipped with newfound insights and tools to address your concerns and work towards your goals with confidence and positivity.

Hypnotherapy sessions are run every Tuesday. Ring our friendly reception staff for more info or to book.

We offer in-house speech pathology services with Annette Coyne.

Please click here for more information.

What is Chronic Disease Management?

Chronic Disease Management (CDM) is a way your GP and our Chronic Disease Nurse – can help to stay on top of long-term health conditions like:

• Diabetes
• Asthma or COPD (lung conditions)
• Heart disease
• Arthritis
• Osteoporosis
• Mental health conditions
• And many others that last 6 months or more.

How It Helps You

CDM gives you a personalised care plan and regular check-ins to manage your condition, keep you well, and prevent complications. Your GP works with you and other health professionals (like a nurse, physio, dietitian, or psychologist) to:

• Understand your condition
• Set health goals
• Track progress
• Coordinate your care
• Keep your medications and tests up to date.

What is a Care Plan?

A GP Chronic Condition Management Plan (GPCCMP) is a document your doctor prepares with you that:

• • Lists your health conditions
  • Sets your treatment goals
  • Outlines services and support you may need.

Are There Medicare Rebates?

Yes! If you have a care plan, you may be eligible for up to 5 Medicare-rebated visits per year to allied health providers (e.g., podiatrist, physio, dietitian). Your GP will explain how this works.

How Often is it Reviewed?

Your care plan is usually reviewed every 6 months, or sooner if your needs change. This helps make sure your care stays up to date and effective.

Why It’s Important

Chronic conditions need ongoing care—not just treatment when you feel unwell. GPCCMP helps you:

• Stay healthier
• Avoid hospital visits
• Take control of your health
• Get support when you need it.

We offer in-house speech psychology sessions with Dr. Suzanne Habib and Danaë Owen.

Dr. Suzanne Habib is an endorsed health psychologist with a PhD in clinical health psychology. Suzanne’s clinical interests and expertise have a focus on health behaviour change, anxiety, depression, adjustment to illness and disability, sexual health, gender related issues, pregnancy and reproductive issues, stress management, bereavement and workplace conflict.

Suzanne values diversity and provides safe, respectful and inclusive therapy for all members of the community aged 14 and above. Suzanne’s therapeutic work includes the use of Cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) Motivational Interviewing (MI) and EMDR.

Danaë is an experienced clinical psychologist with over 35 years of supporting children, families, and individuals across a wide range of settings. She specialises in therapies for grief, loss, trauma, and sexual assault, and works closely with clients to promote recovery, resilience, and emotional wellbeing.

Her practice is grounded in a child-centred philosophy, with a strong focus on empowering young people and their families through compassionate, evidence-based care. Danaë draws on cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT), narrative therapy, and systems approaches, tailoring her interventions to meet the unique needs of each client.

Danaë is committed to creating safe, respectful spaces where children and families feel heard and supported. She values collaboration, cultural sensitivity, and the strengths that each person and family bring to the therapeutic process.

For more information about Danaë visit her website.

• Weeknights after close of business
• Weekends
• Public holidays