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IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) Treatment Online

Manage IBS with a bulk billed telehealth GP. Get symptom assessments, pathology referrals, dietitian referrals, and treatment guidance from home.

What is IBS?

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common condition that affects the digestive system. Symptoms typically include abdominal pain, bloating, and changes in bowel habit — diarrhoea, constipation, or both. IBS is a functional disorder, meaning the gut is sensitive and behaves abnormally without visible damage on routine investigations.

Symptoms vary between people and may be triggered by specific foods, stress, or hormonal changes. Diagnosis is made clinically after other conditions (such as coeliac disease, inflammatory bowel disease, or infection) have been considered.

How a telehealth GP can help

A NewDoc GP can take a careful history, arrange any initial investigations, and discuss a management plan. This may include dietary approaches (such as a low-FODMAP diet under dietitian supervision), stress management strategies, and medications for specific symptoms such as cramping, bloating, diarrhoea, or constipation.

Your GP can provide referrals to a dietitian or gastroenterologist where appropriate. Follow-up consultations help monitor response and refine the plan.

Red-flag symptoms

Some symptoms are not typical of IBS and need further investigation: blood in stools, unintentional weight loss, persistent change in bowel habit in people over 50, night-time symptoms, family history of bowel cancer or inflammatory bowel disease. If any of these apply, speak with a GP promptly.

References

This content is informational and does not replace individual medical advice. For personal assessment, book a consultation with your GP. In emergencies, call 000.

Reviewed by Dr. Jason Yu FRACGP

Last reviewed 16 April 2026. Editorial policy

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Frequently asked questions

Can a telehealth GP diagnose IBS?

A GP can assess your symptoms, arrange appropriate investigations to exclude other causes, and discuss a diagnosis of IBS based on clinical criteria. Some investigations may need to be done in person or at a pathology collection centre.

What tests might my GP order?

Common tests include a full blood count, iron studies, coeliac serology, inflammatory markers, and faecal tests. Further imaging or specialist referral may be indicated depending on your symptoms and age.

Can treatment for IBS be prescribed via telehealth?

Many treatments for IBS — including antispasmodics and medications for specific symptoms — can be prescribed via telehealth if clinically appropriate. Dietary approaches such as the low-FODMAP diet are often trialled with dietitian support.

When should I see a GP in person or a specialist?

Red-flag symptoms — including rectal bleeding, unintentional weight loss, persistent change in bowel habit in people over 50, or a family history of bowel cancer — warrant in-person review and possible specialist referral.

Is the consultation bulk billed?

Yes. NewDoc bulk bills telehealth consultations for eligible Medicare cardholders. There is no out-of-pocket cost for the consultation, eScripts, or pathology referrals.

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