M3 Health Hobsons Bay

This is not a criticism of the doctors themselves, they are professional and I have had no issues with them personally. I was contemplating not leaving this feedback because I really do recognise that these issues are Australia wide. However, I have a few things that I would like to share. The availability of GPs has become quite poor. Occasionally you can call on the day and they are able to squeeze you in - but as I look at the online bookings (right now), I would have to wait 7 days to see a GP, who wouldn't be my first preference. Beyond this, and more significant to me - I understand that GPs all around are raising fees, and I get that this is due to medicare payments not increasing at an appropriate level. However, what I have had to pay for what I feel was essentially 15-20 minutes over two days was beyond what is sustainable for me, let alone somebody less fortunate than myself. Out of pocket - I paid $117.75 for an assessment and for some blood tests, and then today paid $49.25 for a 5 minute phone call where my results were read out and I was told to continue doing what I was doing. I knew about these fees ahead of time, so I don't have animosity about paying for it, but it just isn't sustainable for me. This may not look like much to many people around the area, but it really adds up, considering that some of these referals are to services which in themself are expensive. M3 are upfront about their fees, however, it feels like it has reached a point for me where I need to go elsewhere. Especially if I am paying what I believe is a fair bit, I'd like to be able to see the doctor of my preference in a reasonable amount of time.