Unity Health’s Clinician Model – Misleading Rollout

We have been with Unity Health (Elixi) for two years and, until now, have had no issues with their service overall. Yesterday, they sent an SMS presenting their new clinician‑managed care model as an option. However, when I called today for an auth number to see a GP, I was told it is in fact a requirement: you must first phone the nurse call centre, explain your symptoms, and only if the clinician decides you are “sick enough” will you be referred to a doctor. This process is incredibly frustrating. Receiving a basic Schedule 2 pharmacy script instead of consulting directly with a GP undermines the very purpose of having a family doctor and the unlimited GP consultations we pay for. Just in closing I was on the line for just over an hour trying to speak to a clinician as they had an influx of calls suddenly overloading the system. If was Unity Health I would have rolled this out in phases, not just BOOM there you go. The "think tank" did not do their research on how upsetting this would be on all accounts.

SMS Unity Health: Feeling unwell? Call *** FREE to speak to a qualified clinician for medical advice, treatment guidance, prescriptions where appropriate, and referral to a GP if needed. Sick notes may be issued at the clinician's discretion. Auth FSP 10287.