Frequently Asked Questions
How can I make an appointment?
If you are seeking a home visit, you can also complete an online query form and I will contact you as soon as possible to arrange a time with you.
How should I prepare for my home visit?
The most important thing is that you do not clean up before I arrive! If you have a new baby, I am expecting everything to be messy and you still in your pyjamas. Please just have your baby’s green book and any other information you may have regarding the pregnancy or birth. Where possible, try and have your baby ready to have a feed as this is an important part of the assessment. However, please don’t leave your baby hungry if they can’t wait for the scheduled time! If you are bottle feeding, I also like to assess bottle feeds as part of the consultation.
Why do you book in both mum and baby?
For a comprehensive assessment of breastfeeding, sleep or settling issues it is necessary to take a history and usually examine both mum and baby. It is therefore a medicolegal requirement that I keep and record notes for both of you. This is also helpful as you are then able to access Medicare rebates for both mum and baby, which reduces the out of pocket cost significantly.
Do I need to be a permanent patient of Active Health to book a home visit?
No, I very often see patients for help with feeding or sleep concerns who have a regular GP elsewhere. I am very happy to see you for your postnatal concerns and then return you back to the care of your usual doctor. I will need to take some basic information for your file such as allergies and past history, but can register you as a visiting patient. I am always happy to provide a letter or handover to your own doctor if required.
Do I need a referral to see you?
No, as a General Practitioner I can see anyone without requiring a referral.
What is your approach to sleep problems?
There are many ways to approach sleep and parents can often be overwhelmed with conflicting advice about this. Having four children of my own I know that all babies are unique and one-size-fits-all advice generally leads to frustration. I aim to help parents clarify what their parenting values are and what they feel would work best for their family. I will take a comprehensive history and also examine the baby or child to assess for any medical issues that could be impacting on their sleep. I have a very flexible approach that is individualised to each family's situation. I don't recommend strict routines or CIO methods. I am an accredited NDC practitioner with Possums Education.