Organising Information Before a Support Appointment

Whether you are meeting with a support worker, a therapist, a GP or an NDIS planner, being prepared can help you get more out of the appointment. Having your questions, preferences and key information organised can reduce stress and help you communicate clearly.

This guide offers some practical tips. It is general information only — you should only share information you are comfortable sharing, and you should never feel pressured to share sensitive personal details unless they are directly relevant and you choose to.

Preparing Your Questions

Before the appointment, take a few minutes to think about what you want to get out of it. Writing down your questions can help you remember them and make sure you do not forget to ask something important.

For example, you might want to ask:

• What are the next steps after this appointment?
• How long will it take to see results or progress?
• What can I do at home to support the work we are doing here?
• What happens if I need to cancel or reschedule?
• How will my information be stored and who will have access to it?

It can help to prioritise your questions in case you run out of time. Put the most important ones at the top of your list.

Noting Your Preferences

Appointments go more smoothly when the people supporting you understand your preferences. Consider noting down things like:

• How you prefer to communicate (for example, short sentences, written notes, extra time to think)
• Any words or phrases you would prefer they use or avoid
• Whether you prefer to have a support person with you during appointments
• Whether you prefer appointments at a particular time of day
• Any sensory sensitivities, such as bright lights or loud noises

For example, you might write: "I prefer appointments in the morning when I have more energy, and I'd like my sister to be present for the first part of the meeting."

For more on this, see our guide on communicating your needs and preferences.

Keeping Useful Documents Together

Having relevant documents on hand can help appointments run more smoothly. You might keep a folder, envelope or digital folder with things like:

• A list of your current medications and dosages
• Referral letters or care plans from other providers
• Notes from previous appointments
• Contact details for your GP, support coordinator or other key people
• Your NDIS plan, if you have one (only share what is relevant)

You do not need to bring everything to every appointment. Think about what is relevant to this particular appointment and bring only what is needed.

Sharing Information Safely

You have the right to decide what information you share, and with whom. You should only share what you are comfortable sharing and what is relevant to the support you are receiving.

Some things to keep in mind:

• You are not required to share your full medical history unless it is relevant and you choose to.
• You can ask why certain information is being collected and how it will be used.
• You can request that sensitive information be kept confidential.
• If you are unsure whether to share something, it is okay to ask: "Why do you need that information?"

Under the NDIS, providers must follow privacy rules set out in the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission guidelines. For general health appointments, the Australian Privacy Principles apply.

Involving a Trusted Person

You may wish to bring a trusted family member, friend, support worker or advocate to your appointment. They can help you take notes, remember what was discussed, and speak up for you if needed.

If you want someone with you, let the provider know in advance. You can also ask them to explain their role and why they are there at the start of the appointment.

After the Appointment

Take a few minutes after the appointment to jot down any key points, next steps or follow-up actions. This can help you remember what was discussed and stay on track.

For NDIS-related appointments, see our guide on preparing for an NDIS planning discussion.