Working with your GP

By Amy Hogan

General practice and primary care are the foundation of most people’s health care in Aotearoa New Zealand — the place you go when you’re unwell, when something changes, you need repeat prescriptions, or you’re not sure who else to talk to.

But for people living with Cerebral Palsy (CP) – Hōkai Nukurangi, those short visits can sometimes feel rushed, inconsistent, or difficult to navigate — especially when GPs are under pressure and the health system is stretched thin.

As of 2025, many practices are managing high patient loads, fewer available GPs, and appointment times that can be as short as 10–15 minutes. Some clinics have long waitlists for enrolment, and others rely on locum or “casual” doctors who may not know your history.

Despite these challenges, there are ways to build a strong and supportive relationship with your GP, whether it’s someone you’ve seen for years or a new face at an after-hours clinic.

Understanding the GP landscape

GP practices and urgent care centres are working under pressure, and it helps to know what’s happening behind the scenes.

• Short appointments: Many GP appointments are 10–15 minutes long. Complex conditions like CP often need more time – so ask for a double slot and mention when booking that you have mobility or communication needs.
• Staff changes: Locum or casual GPs are common, especially in smaller towns. You might not always see the same person twice, which makes it important to keep a written record of your supports and key things about your disability that may not be in a typical health record, e.g. communication preferences.
• Enrolment issues: Some clinics are at capacity and may not be enrolling new patients. If you’re looking to switch or can’t access your usual doctor, you can still book a casual appointment elsewhere — but it helps to arrive prepared.
• Primary care networks: Many practices now work in group models with nurses, physiotherapists, dietitians, and social prescribers. You don’t have to do everything through your GP — sometimes these team members can help with follow-up care or paperwork.

Getting the most from your appointments

Book strategically
When you make an appointment, mention if you need extra time or physical access support. Reception staff can usually allocate a longer slot or note that you may need help transferring or undressing for an examination. If you communicate differently (e.g., using AAC, a support person, or you have slower speech), mention that too — it helps the GP plan ahead.

Come prepared
Jot down what’s changed since your last visit (e.g., new pain, fatigue, or stiffness), any medications or therapies you’re using, and questions you don’t want to forget. Having this written down saves time and ensures your priorities are heard.

Explain your baseline
People with CP often have different baselines — what’s normal for you might sound unusual to someone who hasn’t met you before. Describe what’s typical and what’s new.

Be clear about priorities
If you have several issues, choose one or two to focus on during each visit. You can always ask for a follow-up appointment for the rest.

Ask for written summaries
If you process information best in writing or use support people, you can ask for a brief summary of what was discussed or decided.

Working with a casual GP or new doctor

Sometimes you can’t see your usual GP — maybe you’re travelling, your clinic is booked out, or you’re unwell outside of hours. Casual or urgent-care appointments can still be productive if you prepare key information that you may need to convey in relation to CP, e.g. transferring preferences, skin sensitivities or reactions.

Bring key information

• A short list of medications (including doses and timings)
• Notes on any recent hospital stays or specialist appointments
• Information on your mobility, communication, or support needs.

Explain CP in context
Not every GP will be familiar with CP. A quick description helps frame the conversation.

Clarify your main concern
Casual doctors may focus narrowly on one issue. That’s okay — they’re trying to treat what’s in front of them. If you believe you need follow-up or a specialist referral, ask for it clearly.

If the GP seems unsure
It’s fine to politely suggest context or share resources. You’re the expert on your body — and most doctors appreciate calm, factual input.

Resources

• Factsheets for GPs

---

* Amy Hogan is the Cerebral Palsy Society’s Researcher and Member Support Advisor.