Prepare for a First Conversation
A useful introduction begins with your questions. Choose the topics you want to discuss and create an agenda to take to a provider.
No name or health details needed. Selections stay on this page and are not saved or sent to ARCSENA. This tool prepares questions; it does not provide clinical advice or grant permissions.
Your agenda will appear here.
Choose the topics on this page, then select “Create my agenda”. Take the result to a conversation with your provider.
Read the complete question list
You can use these questions directly, including when interactive tools are unavailable.
Start here
- Begin by describing, in your own words, what you hope the conversation will clarify. You do not need to prepare a diagnosis.
- Ask what happens after this conversation, who is responsible for the next step and when you can expect an answer.
Expertise and fit
- What qualifications and experience are relevant to my question?
- Is this an assessment, ongoing treatment or a coordination service?
- How can I raise a concern if the working relationship does not feel suitable?
Care already in place
- How would this relationship fit with my existing clinicians?
- What information would you need, and how would any authorised exchange be arranged?
- Who remains responsible while a new referral or assessment is being considered?
Privacy and communication
- Who can access the information I provide, and what exceptions apply?
- What would appear in reminders, invoices and calendar invitations?
- How do I agree or change the involvement of a relative or representative?
Appointments and access
- Where can appointments take place and what is the realistic availability?
- Which channels are for scheduling, and which are for clinical questions?
- What should I do if needs become urgent outside your service hours?
Scope and fees
- What is included, what is charged separately and who delivers each service?
- What happens if the scope changes or I decide not to continue?
- Are ownership or financial relationships relevant to any proposed referral?
Travel and changing commitments
- Can each clinician work with me in the places where I will physically be?
- Who would arrange a local provider or handover if needed?
- How will the plan be reviewed after a move, tour, project or other transition?
For context, read the related guide or explore all planning tools.
A private conversation.
A clearer way forward.
Begin with what matters to you. We can take it from there.