March Health Update
This autumn, Family Medical Practices welcomes three new GPs to Kirrawee, with updates on kidney health month, preventive checks, inclusive care, and same-day appointments. Open 7 days across Kirrawee, Woolooware and Kurnell.
As we move into autumn, it is a good time to pause and check in on your health. At Family Medical Practices, we believe great healthcare isn't just about treating illness; it is about prevention, inclusion, and being there when you need care most. This month we're highlighting kidney health, inclusive care, preventative health checks, and how your GP can help with urgent concerns on the day.
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Meet our Newest Faces
We have recently welcomed some new additions to our team; Dr James Mitchell, Dr Molly Ratcliffe & Dr Eleanor Gurney. They are all now seeing patients at our Kirrawee site.
Dr James Mitchell graduated from the University of Sydney before undertaking his internship and residency at St George and Sutherland Hospitals. He enjoys the diversity that general practice offers and values caring for patients across all stages of life. His areas of interest include lifestyle and preventative medicine, weight management, and travel medicine.
Dr Molly Ratcliffe completed her medical degree at the University of Newcastle in 2020. She has since gained broad hospital experience at St George and Sutherland Hospitals, as well as Kirketon Road Centre, before commencing her GP training.
Dr Molly has completed the Sydney Children's Health Program, holds a RANZCOG certificate in Women's Health, and a Family Planning Sexual and Reproductive Health Certificate. She is an accredited S100 prescriber and is qualified in Implanon and IUD insertion and removal.
Dr Eleanor Gurney completed her medical studies at the University of Sydney in 2018 and working in hospitals on the central coast before moving back to Sydney. Dr Eleanor is dedicated to providing excellent care to her patients, focusing on their individual needs and goals to promote health and wellbeing.
Looking After Your Kidneys
March is Kidney Health Month, a reminder of the important role our kidneys play in keeping our bodies healthy. Your kidneys filter waste products from the blood, regulate blood pressure, and help maintain fluid balance. Kidney disease often develops silently, with few symptoms in the early stages.
People at higher risk include those with:
- Diabetes
- High blood pressure
- Heart disease
- A family history of kidney disease
- Age over 60
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander background
A simple blood and urine test can help detect kidney disease early.
Early detection allows your GP to:
- Monitor kidney function
- Manage blood pressure and diabetes
- Review medications
- Slow disease progression
If you haven't had a health check recently, this is a great time to book one.
Inclusive Care for Every Patient
At Family Medical Practices, we are committed to providing respectful, inclusive care for everyone in our community.
Healthcare works best when patients feel safe, heard and understood.
Our team support people from all backgrounds, including:
- LGBTQIA+ patients
- People living with disability
- Neurodivergent patients
- People navigating complex or chronic health conditions
If there are ways we can make your visit easier, such as longer appointments, quieter waiting areas, or support people attending, please let our team know.
Your GP is here to listen first, and work with you to find the right approach to your health
Preventive Health: Small Checks That Make a Big Difference
Preventive healthcare helps detect problems early and keeps your healthier for longer.
Depending on your age and health history, your GP may recommend:
Health checks
- Blood pressure monitoring
- Cholesterol testing
- Diabetes screening
Cancer screening
- Cervical screening tests (reminder now starts at 25!)
- Breast screening
- Bowel cancer screening (reminder can now opt in from age 45)
- Sleep and stress support
- Exercise and nutrition advice
- Mental health check-ins
Many of these checks only take a short appointment but can have lifelong benefits.
When You Need Care Today
Many people aren't aware that your GP can often help with urgent health concerns on the same day.
Kirrawee is now open 7 days a week, and keeps urgent / on the day appointments every day - so you can see a GP when you need to.
We keep appointments available each day for patients who need prompt medical care.
Your GP can help with issues such as:
- infections
- injuries or sprains
- breathing problems
- pain or sudden illness
- children who become unwell quickly
- medication problems
Seeing your GP for urgent concerns can often mean shorter wait times and more continuity of care, particularly when compared with emergency departments for non-life threatening issues.
If you're unsure, call our reception team and they can help guide you to the right appointment. Of course, for life-threatening emergencies, always call 000.
We're Here for Our Community
At Family Medical Practices, our goal is to support the health of individuals, families, and the broader community. From preventive care and chronic disease management to urgent appointments when you need them, your GP is your partner in long-term health.
If it's been a while since your last check-up, this month might be the perfect time to book in.
