FAQ
Patients
| Do you provide face to face services? | All providers (GP, psychiatrists, mental health professionals) on AOA Clinic only provide telehealth services. |
| When is telehealth (online) not appropriate? | Telehealth relies on the patient being willing and able to participate in the consultation safely, as well as the doctor and patient being some distance apart. Telehealth is not appropriate for patients who pose a moderate to high risk of hurting themselves or others. Patients who are acutely suicidal, homicidal, or under the influence of alcohol or other substances fall under this category. |
| Can my own GP refer me to psychiatrists or mental health professionals practicing at AOA Clinic? | Yes. Your GP can refer you. However, we will still book you in with an AOA Clinic GP as part of the assessment process . If you do not have one you can be referred by a GP at AOA Clinic. |
| Do GPs practicing at AOA Clinic treat my physical health conditions? | GPs on AOA Clinic only focus on mental health, so see your regular GP for any physical health concerns. |
| Can I get an emergency appointment? | There is no emergency service offered by us. We cannot respond to emergencies. It is advisable to call 000 or go to the emergency room at your local hospital in an emergency (when someone is immediately in danger). |
| What if I don't have anyone from my primary school years that can attend the 2nd appointment? | This is compulsory for all assessments. If you don't have anyone that can attend - it may be worth looking into other clinics as we are unable to make a thorough assessment without this interview. Sending through your primary school reports is an additional, helpful resource that can be used for the assessment. |
| Is there a cancellation fee if I cancel within 72 hours? | Booking an appointment and not attending takes away appointment times for other people who may really need them. We would like to be notified if you cannot attend with enough time to be able to offer that timeslot to someone else. Failing to attend an appointment, cancelling or rescheduling with less than 72 hours notice will incur a cancellation fee. |
GP Providers
| Can I refer my patients to psychiatrists or mental health professionals at AOA Clinic? | Yes, you can. Please use the online enquiry form or send referral to admin@aoaclinic.online |
| Can I join AOA Clinic to develop a practice focused on mental health? | Yes, you can. Please send an online enquiry for further details. |
Emergency Contacts
| There is no emergency service offered by us. We cannot respond to emergencies. | It is advisable to call 000 or go to the emergency room at your local hospital in an emergency (when someone is immediately in danger). |
| The following numbers are staffed around-the-clock by knowledgeable and sympathetic individuals. | Kids Helpline - specifically for children and young people aged 5 – 25. Call 1800 55 1800. Lifeline provides 24-hour crisis counselling, support groups and suicide prevention services. Call 13 11 14, text 0477 13 11 14 or chat online. |