At Copa Medical, we welcome Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and families. We want to understand what matters to you and for you to feel comfortable asking questions and being involved in decisions about your health.
Whether you need help with current concerns, ongoing GP care or a 715 health check, our reception team can help you arrange the right appointment at our practice opposite Copacabana Beach.
Acknowledgement of Country
Copacabana Medical Centre acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the land and waters around Copacabana. We pay our respects to Elders past and present, and recognise the continuing connections Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have to Country, culture and community.
What is a 715 health check?
A 715 health check is a health assessment for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. It is an opportunity to look at your overall health, talk about your priorities and agree on useful next steps with your GP. You do not need to feel unwell to ask about one.
The discussion can include physical health, emotional and social wellbeing, medicines and preventive care. Your GP will tailor the assessment to your circumstances, explain any recommended examinations or tests, and ask for your consent.
How a health check can help
A health check can bring together concerns that may be difficult to cover in a shorter visit. It can help identify health needs, review the care you already receive and plan any follow-up. You will be offered a written report with recommendations and a plan for your health, so you have something to refer to after the appointment.
Appointments and people involved in your care
How to arrange your appointment
Call 02 4381 1576 and tell reception that you would like to ask about an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health assessment, also called a 715 health check. This helps us arrange the appropriate appointment rather than a standard short consultation.
Reception can explain the booking arrangements and fees, and check what information is needed before your visit. If you have had a recent health assessment at another practice, let us know so we can check when you may be eligible for another Medicare-supported assessment.
When you call, please tell us about any communication or access needs, a preferred doctor, or anything that would help you feel more comfortable. We can discuss what is available and how to prepare for your visit.
Bring people you trust
You are welcome to bring one or more support people of your choice, such as a family member, community member, friend or carer. Please let reception know when booking so we can plan the appointment space with you.
You decide how you would like your support people involved. They might help you remember questions, understand information or talk through the plan afterwards. You can also ask to speak with the GP privately for part of your appointment.
What to bring
- Your Medicare card, if you have one, and any relevant concession card.
- A list of your medicines, or the medicines themselves, including supplements.
- Any relevant results, letters or care plans you already have.
- Questions or priorities you would like to discuss. You do not need to prepare a formal list.
Care planned with you
Your GP will discuss what matters most to you and work with you on the next steps. These may include a review appointment, tests or referrals to other health professionals, depending on your needs.
If you already see a psychologist, specialist, Aboriginal health service or another treating professional, tell your GP. With your consent, we can discuss how relevant information can be shared to help coordinate your care. You can tell us who you would like involved and ask questions about what will be shared.
Any referrals depend on clinical need and the services available. Your GP can explain the proposed pathway, and the receiving provider can confirm appointment availability and costs.
Patient questions and contact details
Who can have a 715 health check?
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people of any age may be eligible for a Medicare-supported health assessment. Your GP will check Medicare eligibility and whether the assessment is appropriate. Different arrangements apply if you are a hospital inpatient or receive care in a residential aged care facility.
Should I have one every nine months?
Health checks are often described as annual checks. Medicare allows an eligible assessment once at least nine months have passed since a previous relevant assessment, including one at another practice. This is a Medicare claiming rule, rather than advice that everyone needs a check exactly every nine months.
Your GP can help you decide when another assessment would be useful. You do not need to wait for the next health check to seek care for a new symptom, concern or change in your health.
What does it cost?
715 Health Assessments are generally bulk billed for eligible patients. However, if you have received this service at another practice within the previous nine months, Medicare may not cover the cost of another assessment, and you may be charged a private fee.
If you are unsure whether you are eligible, you can:
- Contact Medicare to confirm your eligibility.
- Check your Medicare claims history through your myGov account
- Contact our reception team, who can assist you in checking your eligibility with your consent.
To avoid unexpected costs, we encourage you to confirm your eligibility before your appointment
Do I need to have every test or examination suggested?
Your GP will explain what is recommended and why. You can ask questions, discuss alternatives or decline. The assessment is carried out with your consent and should reflect your health needs and priorities.
Can someone come with me?
Yes. You may bring one or more people you trust. Tell reception when booking so we can make suitable arrangements. You can also choose to attend on your own or speak privately with your GP during the visit.
Will I automatically receive psychology or allied health appointments?
No. Your GP will discuss whether follow-up services or a referral are appropriate. Medicare eligibility, referral requirements, provider availability and any fees need to be checked. A health assessment does not automatically book or guarantee access to another service.
Talk with our reception team
Call 02 4381 1576 to discuss an appointment.
Copacabana Medical Centre
Shops 3 and 5, 202–204 Del Monte Place, Copacabana NSW 2251
Monday to Friday, 9 am to 6 pm