The Role of a General Practitioner (GP) in Your Obesity Treatment Journey
This information is general in nature and does not replace personalised professional advice. Please contact your healthcare team if you have any questions or concerns.
Author: Madison Bruhn, Accredited Practising Dietitian
Peer reviewed by: Dr Terri-Lynne South, General Practitioner & Accredited Practising Dietitian
Last reviewed: May 2026
What is a GP?
A General Practitioner (GP) is your main doctor and often the first person you see when you have a health concern [1,2]. They provide ongoing, whole-person care and support you at every stage of your health journey, including when it comes to weight, appetite and nutrition. Your GP gets to know your medical history, lifestyle and individual needs, allowing them to provide personalised care that is safe and appropriate for you [1,2].
How does your GP support your obesity treatment?
Your GP looks at the bigger picture of your health, recognising that weight is just one part of overall wellbeing. They can support you by:
Providing a safe, non-judgmental space to talk about your health [1,2].
Assessing and monitoring your health (eg. blood tests, blood pressure, weight and other health markers) [1-3].
Checking for and managing other health conditions (eg. Type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol, joint pain, sleep apnoea) [1-3].
Helping you understand and explore your treatment options [2,4].
Developing a personalised care plan based on your goals and lifestyle [4].
Referring you to other health professional as required (eg. dietitian, psychologist, exercise professional, medical specialist or bariatric surgeon) [1,2].
Helping you access subsidised care plans where eligible (eg. GP Chronic Condition Management Plan – GPCCMP, Mental Health Treatment Plan – MHTP, or Eating Disorder Treatment Plan – EDTP) [5].
Providing ongoing follow-up and adjusting your care as your needs change [2,4].
Medications and your GP
Your GP is usually the healthcare professional who prescribes and manages obesity management medications (OMMs), such as GLP-1RA medicines [1,4]. Your GP will:
Help determine whether medication is appropriate for you [2,4].
Explain how the medication works and what to expect [2.4].
Monitor your response and any side effects [2.4].
Adjust your dose over time [2,4].
Ensure medications are used safely alongside your nutrition and mental health care [2,4].
Why is your GP important?
Your GP helps bring all parts of your care together and makes sure nothing is missed. They play an important role by:
Keeping track of your health overtime [2].
Coordinating care across your healthcare team [1,2].
Managing other health conditions alongside obesity [1-3].
Supporting you as your needs and goals change throughout each stage of your journey [2].
Many GPs also offer telehealth appointments, making it easier to access support in a way that works for you.
What to expect at your appointment
Your GP will take the time to understand your overall health and goals. This helps them provide care that is tailored to your needs. Your GP may ask about:
Your medical history [2].
Your eating patterns, appetite and relationship with food [2].
Your lifestyle and daily routines [2].
Your mental health, mood and stress levels [2].
Previous treatments and any past changes in your weight [2].
They may also:
Check your blood pressure, heart rate and other vital signs [2].
Measure your weight and, in some cases, waist circumference (a simple measure around your stomach area) [2].
Organise blood tests or other scans if needed. [2]
How much does it cost to see a GP?
The cost of seeing a GP can vary depending on the clinic and type of appointment. Some appointments may be bulk billed, which means Medicare covers the full cost and you don't pay anything (if you have a Medicare card). Other appointments may involve an out-of-pocket expense, which is the amount you pay after Medicare contributes [1,5].
How to find a GP?
It’s important that you feel supported, heard and respected by your GP. You may consider finding a new GP or getting a second opinion if:
You feel your concerns are not being taken seriously.
You are given overly simple advice without discussion.
You don't feel comfortable asking questions.
References
Better Health Channel (2024). General practitioner services. https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/serviceprofiles/general-practitioner-services
National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC). Clinical practice guidelines for the management of overweight and obesity in adults, adolescents and children in Australia. Melbourne: NHMRC; 2013.
Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP). Guidelines for preventive activities in general practice. East Melbourne: RACGP; 2024.
Markovic TP, Proietto J, Dixon JB, Rigas G, Deed G, Hamdorf JM, et al. The Australian Obesity Management Algorithm: A simple tool to guide the management of obesity in primary care. Obesity Research & Clinical Practice. 2022;16(5):353-63.
Services Australia (2025). Care plans. https://www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/care-plans?context=20