Remedies, supplements

Q: Can remedies or supplements be bought over the counter at Health Essence, without my consulting the doctor?

A: In general, no. Dr Terblanche wishes to keep track of your progress as you heal. And, as you heal, the remedies and supplements may need to change. However, there will be circumstances, such as when Dr Terblanche has said she need see you only several weeks’ or month’s time, when you will need to top up the remedies and supplements prescribed. In such cases, it will not be necessary to consult Dr Terblanche. But it’s always advisable to check first.

Q: Do you dispense medicines at the practice?

A: Yes, we dispense the homeopathic remedies and supplements that are prescribed by Dr Terblanche. This is more convenient for you and it ensures that you are receiving teh correct quality of whatever product is prescribed. Also, the remedies and supplements are not readily available from other sources.

Q: Is the practice licensed to dispense medicines?

A: Yes, the practice is registered with the AHPCSA and the HPCSA as a dispensing practice.

Consultations

Q: How long in advance must I make a booking?

A: If you have an emergency, we will make every effort to fit you in.

For all new patients who do not have an emergency, you will be emailed or faxed a questionnaire that will give Dr Terblanche detailed information about your health. This enables her to make best use of her time with you in a face to face consultation. Once she has read your questionnaires, she will arrange your first appointment with her.

For follow-up appointments, please make them at reception before you leave the practice. This will ensure that you get an appointment within the period specified by Dr Terblanche.

Q: How long is the first consultation – and how long are follow-up consultations?

A: The first consultation will last between 60 and 90 minutes. Follow-up consultations usually require no more than thirty minutes.

Q: What is the typical duration of a treatment?

A: Every patient is different. So, treatment durations vary according to the patient’s need. Dr Terblanche will track progress and welcomes feedback by email or sms. She may adjust treatment as symptoms change.

Q: What are the practice hours?

A: Health Essence is open from Monday to Thursday from 09:00 to 15:30. On Fridays, the office is open from 09:00 to 13:00.

Admin

Q: What are the payment methods?

A: Health Essence is a cash practice. Please make payment after every consultation and at the collection of any remedies or supplements dispensed. The practice accepts credit cards and cash. EFT payments can be made at the practice.

Medical Aids

Health Essence is contracted out of medical aids. You will need to settle your account after each consultation and collection of the prescribed remedies and supplements and then claim a refund from your medical aid. As Dr Terblanche is a qualified GP, most medical aids will pay her consultation fees. Payment for the remedies and supplements varies from medical aid to medical scheme.