If you’re a concession card holder, managing your healthcare often means more than just turning up to the doctor on time. It can mean navigating a mix of systems including Centrelink, public housing, the NDIS, aged care services and more just to get the support you need. It’s a lot to handle, especially when you’re also dealing with health issues, limited resources or the stress of day-to-day life.
In fact, in an Alternaleaf survey (Nov 2024)(Source:A), 46% of concession card holders agreed that managing their healthcare feels like a juggling act, with referrals, appointments and follow-ups leaving many feeling frustrated.
So why is it so complex and what can actually help? In this article, we break down the challenges and share four practical steps to help make managing your care feel more manageable.
Why care gets complicated
One of the biggest challenges is that each service works in its own way. You might get a GP referral for a specialist, but wait weeks or months for a public hospital appointment. At the same time, your NDIS plan might be up for review, Centrelink needs an update and your aged care coordinator may be requesting new documents. Because these systems don’t always talk to each other, the task of coordinating everything often lands on you, the patient.
It’s not just paperwork, either. Keeping track of appointments, following up on referrals and explaining your history to different providers takes real time and effort. When you’re managing multiple services on top of your health it’s understandable to feel stretched.
4 simple steps that make care easier
While the system isn’t always easy to navigate, there are a few practical things that can help make the load a little lighter.
1. Keep a central record of everything
Whether it’s a wall calendar, a notebook or your phone’s calendar app, keeping your appointments, follow-ups and notes in one place makes a real difference. It also means you have something to refer back to when you’re asked about past visits, costs or referrals.
We recommend visiting and learning more about My Health Record and the my health app, which could provide you with key health information and electronic prescriptions in the palm of your hand. Visit the Australian Governments Digital Health website to find out more (Source B).
2. Prepare before the appointment
It’s easy to forget what you meant to ask once you’re in the room. Writing down your main questions or concerns beforehand can help you make the most of the time. If it helps, bring someone with you or ask the clinician to write down the key points before you leave.
3. Don’t leave without the follow-up
Before the appointment ends, double-check if you need a follow-up booked, a referral or a copy of your results. If you’re unsure what comes next, it’s okay to ask, “Is there anything I need to organise before the next step?”
4. Ask for support when you need it
You don’t have to manage this alone. Whether it’s a trusted friend, a carer or your case manager, sharing the load can make a big difference. Some clinics and services also offer care coordinators or social workers who can help, it’s worth asking.
Managing multiple services can be tough, but you don’t have to do it alone. Simple steps and asking for support can make a real difference in staying on top of your care. Find what works for you and take it one step at a time.
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