Patient Information and What to Expect

Everything you need to know about appointments, clinic processes, and how care is delivered at Tintenbar Medical Centre.

Booking a Doctor’s Appointment

Consultations are by appointment only. Every effort will be made to accommodate your preferred time and doctor. Urgent cases will be seen by the first available doctor.

We are also a teaching practice, supporting GP Registrars through six-month placements. This means your preferred doctor may not always be available when booking.

Longer Consultations

Standard consultations are 15 minutes.

Please let reception know if you require a longer appointment, especially for multiple concerns or more complex issues.

Running on Time

We aim to run on time, however delays can occur.

Please arrive 5 minutes early to check in and allow extra time for parking.

Booking Options

Appointments can be booked online via the Book Now button, through Automed, or the Automed App.

You can also book by phone on (02) 6687 8299 or in person at reception.

Other Important Information

QML Pathology is located at the side entrance of the building near the main entry at the top of the ramp. Please follow signage on arrival to locate the collection room.

If you wish to see a nurse at the centre, you will need to book in to see a GP first, as nurses are unable to provide care without a referral from a doctor.

Our doctors are available for home visits and local nursing home visits by request. Please contact reception to discuss availability and suitability.

Contacting Your Doctor

Doctors can be contacted by phone during normal clinic hours.

If your doctor is unavailable, a message will be taken and your call returned as soon as possible. Urgent calls will be prioritised.

Forms & Referrals

Lost pathology or radiology forms cannot be reissued by reception.

A new appointment with your GP is required to organise replacements and ensure the correct documentation is provided.

Test Results

Your doctor will advise when your results are expected.

A follow-up appointment is required to discuss results, which are not provided by phone or email (excluding INR results).

Feedback, Complaints & Privacy

We are committed to providing a high standard of care and value feedback from our patients. Whether you would like to share your experience, raise a concern, or understand how your information is handled, this section outlines your options and our responsibilities.

We encourage patients to contact us directly wherever possible so we can resolve concerns promptly and at a local level, while also providing clear pathways for external support if needed.

Feedback & Complaints

If you have feedback or would like to make a complaint, you can speak directly with our team or choose from several options depending on your preference.

You can request to speak with the practice manager in person or by phone, ask reception for a feedback or complaint form, or email us at reception@tintmed.com.au.

If your concern is not resolved, you can contact the Healthcare Complaints Commission (HCCC) on 1800 043 159 to lodge a formal complaint.

Privacy & Confidentiality

Your privacy is essential to the care we provide. All personal and health information is treated as confidential and is only collected with your consent to support your treatment and ongoing care.

Our team is bound by strict confidentiality agreements, and all records are securely stored.

Information may be used for research, quality assurance, or internal reviews, with consent or in de-identified form where appropriate. For more details, you can request a copy of our privacy policy from reception.

Schedule an Appointment

Consult with a GP for a wide range of health concerns, from routine check-ups to ongoing medical management, with flexible appointment options available.

If you’re unsure what type of appointment to book or need guidance beforehand, our team is here to help.

Emergencies

If you need a doctor urgently outside of our opening hours please call:

Ballina District Hospital: 02 6620 6400

North Coast Health Connect: 1800 198 888

For emergencies call 000 for an ambulance.

Opening Hours

Medical Centre
Monday – Thursday: 9:00am – 5:00pm

Skin Cancer Clinic
Tuesdays