A GP is generally the first person to contact for most health problems. A GP can help with:

• physical illnesses
• injuries
• emotional issues (stress, problems with relationships, school family or work, anxiety, depression, suicidal thoughts)
• sexual health and contraception
• diet, nutrition, exercise and relaxation
• smoking, alcohol and other drug use
• immunisations (including Hepatitis B)
• general health check-ups.

The role of the GP is broad and can include:

• providing support and advice in relation to health and well-being
• diagnosis
• arranging diagnostic tests to find out more about a health condition
• provide prescriptions, if needed
• suggesting types of treatment (e.g., relaxation, exercise)
• referring to other health services (e.g., physiotherapy, psychologist)
• referring to community services (e.g., immunisation clinic, supported accommodation)
• referring to medical specialists if a health condition requires specialist knowledge (e.g., orthopaedic surgeon, psychiatrist).

Role of general practice for schools

General practice settings are in a unique position within the primary health care system to coordinate the multidisciplinary care that a young person with high support needs may require. For a student with high support needs, the school also will be integrally involved with ongoing care and support. This means that the roles of the staff within the school need to be determined in terms of their responsibilities within the multidisciplinary team. A clear understanding of the roles and responsibilities of all the parties must be established. These roles and responsibilities will vary depending on the needs of the student, the types of resources available in the community, and the types of supports and services that the student needs to access.