Communication, results & recall.

1. Investigation results

Wherever possible, results of investigations (pathology, imaging, biopsy histology) are reviewed and discussed with you at a follow-up consultation. This allows Dr Waly to interpret the result in the context of your clinical picture and to agree on a plan.

For significant or unexpected results, you will be contacted directly — usually by phone — on the day the result is reviewed. If you cannot be reached, a recall will be arranged through reception. For routine results, you will be informed at your next consultation or by SMS if the result is normal and no action is needed.

As a general rule, please assume no news is not good news — if you have not heard within the expected timeframe for your test, please contact reception to check.

2. Recalls and reminders

A recall is a follow-up that is clinically required — for example, repeating a blood test, reviewing an abnormal result, or monitoring a skin lesion. Recalls are tracked in the practice recall system. If a recall is required, reception will contact you to arrange the appointment; if you cannot be reached, a written reminder is sent. Reminders for routine preventive care (e.g. annual reviews, immunisations) are also issued from time to time. You may opt out of reminders by notifying reception.

3. Repeat prescriptions

Prescription requests are managed through a consultation in most cases. Dr Waly will not provide repeat prescriptions by email, SMS, or through the website’s contact form.

For ongoing medicines, you may request repeats by telephone through reception if it has been less than three months since your last in-person consultation and the medicine does not require a review. Otherwise, a brief consultation will be required. This policy reflects the Medical Board of Australia’s requirements around good prescribing practice.

4. Specialist referrals and correspondence

When a referral is generated, a written referral letter is sent electronically (via secure messaging or fax) to the receiving specialist or service, with a copy added to your record. Where you prefer the referral to go to a particular practitioner, please let Dr Waly know during the consultation.

Correspondence received from a specialist or other treating clinician is reviewed, actioned where required, and added to your record. Important findings are communicated to you through the process described in section 1 above.

5. SMS and electronic communication

SMS may be used by the practice for appointment confirmations, reminders, recalls, and to notify you that a normal result is available for discussion. SMS is not used for clinical advice or to convey significant results. Standard mobile-network privacy applies; if you would prefer not to receive SMS communication, please advise reception.

6. Email and the website contact form

The website’s contact form and any email correspondence are for non-clinical enquiries only — see the Disclaimer and the Contact page. Clinical matters cannot be managed by email.

7. After-hours and emergencies

Outside of consulting hours, please contact your nearest emergency department or call 000 for an emergency. For non-emergency after-hours health advice, Healthdirect is available 24 hours a day on 1800 022 222.

8. Records and the Privacy Act

All written and electronic communication is recorded in your medical record and handled in line with the Privacy Policy.