Do you need a referral?
Straight answers for specialists, scans and tests: whether you need a referral, what Medicare covers, and how long it lasts. Every page links to its sources.
Referral basics
Can you get a referral online?
Yes.
Read more Referral basicsHow long does a referral last?
A GP referral to a specialist lasts 12 months unless your GP writes a different period, which can be shorter, longer or indefinite.
Read more Referral basicsWhat is a referral letter?
A referral letter is a written request from your GP, or another eligible practitioner, asking a specialist to help with a specific health problem.
Read moreSpecialists
Do I need a referral for a cardiologist?
In most cases, yes.
Read more SpecialistsDo I need a referral for a dermatologist?
Not to book, but yes if you want Medicare to help with the cost.
Read more SpecialistsDo I need a referral for a fertility specialist?
For a Medicare rebate on your consultations, yes.
Read more SpecialistsDo I need a referral for a gastroenterologist?
Yes, if you want a Medicare rebate.
Read more SpecialistsDo I need a referral for a gynaecologist?
Yes, if you want a Medicare rebate.
Read more SpecialistsDo I need a referral for a neurologist?
For a Medicare rebate, yes.
Read more SpecialistsDo I need a referral for a paediatrician?
Yes, if you want a Medicare rebate.
Read more SpecialistsDo I need a referral for a psychiatrist?
Yes, if you want a Medicare rebate.
Read more SpecialistsDo I need a referral for a rheumatologist?
For a Medicare rebate, yes.
Read more SpecialistsDo I need a referral for a urologist?
Yes, if you want a Medicare rebate.
Read more SpecialistsDo I need a referral for an endocrinologist?
Yes, if you want a Medicare rebate.
Read more SpecialistsDo I need a referral for an ENT specialist?
For a Medicare rebate, yes.
Read more SpecialistsDo I need a referral for an ophthalmologist?
For a Medicare rebate, yes.
Read moreImaging and scans
Do I need a referral for a CT scan?
Yes.
Read more ImagingDo I need a referral for a DEXA scan?
For a Medicare rebate, yes.
Read more ImagingDo I need a referral for a mammogram?
It depends why you're having it.
Read more ImagingDo I need a referral for an MRI?
Yes.
Read more ImagingDo I need a referral for an ultrasound?
For a Medicare rebate, yes.
Read more ImagingDo I need a referral for an X-ray?
For a Medicare rebate, yes.
Read morePathology and blood tests
Allied health and mental health
Do I need a referral for a dietitian?
No, not if you're paying privately.
Read more Allied healthDo I need a referral for a physiotherapist?
No, not if you're paying privately.
Read more Allied healthDo I need a referral for a podiatrist?
No, not if you're paying privately.
Read more Allied healthDo I need a referral for a psychologist?
Not if you're paying privately.
Read moreNeed a referral?
Tell us what you need and our team will contact you to book a telehealth consult with a GP.