Australia boasts one of the world’s top healthcare systems, ensuring you have access to quality medical care during your studies.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed—whether from stress, homesickness, or illness—there are resources available to support you.
Finding a General Practitioner (GP)
In every city and town, you’ll find general practitioners (GPs) who are your first point of contact for non-emergency healthcare. GPs are equipped to handle a wide range of health issues, both physical and mental.
When to Visit a GP
- Common Illnesses: For ailments like the flu, rashes, or minor injuries, a GP can provide treatment and management.
- Vaccinations: Get advice on necessary vaccinations based on your age and health needs.
- Mental Health Support: If you’re feeling down or anxious, discussing your feelings with a GP is a vital step. They can create a mental health plan tailored to you.
- Sexual Health Services: GPs can test for STIs and discuss birth control options.
- Preventive Care: Routine screenings for various health conditions can be arranged through your GP.
- Specialist Referrals: If specialized care is needed, your GP will connect you with the right expert.
Booking an Appointment
To see a GP:
- Search online for local clinics and book your appointment.
- Inform the clinic that you have Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC).
- Specify if you have a preference for a male or female doctor.
- If you require a longer appointment, let the clinic know ahead of time.
- Consider telehealth options for consultations that don’t require a physical examination.
Using Your OSHC
OSHC is health insurance specifically for international students in Australia. Here are some tips:
- Check what services your OSHC policy covers before making appointments.
- Bring your OSHC card to every medical visit.
- For OSHC inquiries, reach out to your insurance provider’s helpline or website.
Understanding Costs
- Bulk Billing: Some doctors bill your OSHC directly, meaning you may not have to pay upfront. Search for clinics that offer this service.
- Gap Payments: If your OSHC doesn’t cover the full fee, you might need to pay the difference.
- Additional Costs: Be aware that prescriptions and tests may incur extra charges, which your OSHC might cover partially.
Tips for Enhancing Your Wellbeing
Managing stress and adjusting to a new environment is crucial for your overall health. Explore our blog for advice on improving your mental wellbeing:
- Strategies for accessing mental health support.
- Effective ways to boost your mental health.
- Tips for overcoming homesickness.
- How to connect with fellow students.
Further Support Options
Numerous resources are available to help you. You can:
- Speak with a counselor at your educational institution.
- Consult your GP for additional support.
- Utilize online self-help tools.
- Join peer support groups or workshops to share experiences.
For urgent help, contact these services:
- Beyond Blue: Offers trusted mental health support via chat or phone.
- Lifeline: Provides text, phone, and online chat support, with translation services available.
- Suicide Call Back Service: Available 24/7 for counselling.
- Headspace: Offers various services for students, with materials in multiple languages.
- Embrace Multicultural Mental Health: Provides multilingual mental health resources.
- Head to Health: Supports culturally diverse individuals.
Taking care of your health and wellbeing is essential for a successful study experience in Australia. Utilize these resources to help you thrive!
