How to get a specialist referral online
If you need to see a specialist, the first step in Australia is a referral from a GP. At NewDoc, you can get this referral through a telehealth consultation without visiting a clinic. Book an appointment, speak with an AHPRA-registered GP via video or phone, and if your doctor determines a referral is appropriate, the referral letter will be emailed to you and can be sent directly to the specialist.
The consultation is bulk billed for eligible Medicare patients, which means there is no out-of-pocket cost for the consultation or the referral. Unlike some telehealth providers, NewDoc does not charge extra for referral letters.
What specialists can you be referred to?
Your NewDoc GP can provide referrals to any medical specialist. Common referrals include dermatologists for skin conditions, moles, and acne, cardiologists for heart and cardiovascular concerns, endocrinologists for diabetes, thyroid, and hormonal conditions, gastroenterologists for digestive and bowel issues, orthopaedic surgeons for bone, joint, and musculoskeletal problems, psychiatrists for complex mental health conditions, ENT specialists for ear, nose, and throat concerns, urologists for urinary and male reproductive health, gynaecologists for women's health, and ophthalmologists for eye conditions.
Your GP can also provide referrals for allied health services including psychologists, physiotherapists, dietitians, and other health professionals. Some allied health referrals may be eligible for Medicare rebates under specific care plans.
Pathology and imaging referrals
In addition to specialist referrals, your GP can issue referrals for pathology (blood tests, urine tests, swabs, and other lab work) and medical imaging (X-rays, ultrasounds, CT scans, and MRIs). These referrals are included in your bulk billed consultation at no extra cost.
After receiving your pathology or imaging referral, you attend the collection centre or imaging clinic of your choice. Results are sent to your GP, who will contact you to discuss the findings and arrange any further care.
How referrals work in Australia
In Australia, most specialist consultations require a GP referral for Medicare to cover part or all of the specialist's fee. Without a valid referral, you will need to pay the full cost of the specialist appointment out of pocket.
A standard GP referral is valid for 12 months from the date of issue. Your GP can also issue an indefinite referral for conditions that require ongoing specialist care. The referral letter includes your medical history, current symptoms, and the reason for the referral, which helps the specialist prepare for your appointment.
Getting a referral via telehealth is clinically equivalent to getting one in person. The referral letter is signed by your AHPRA-registered GP and is accepted by all specialists across Australia.
What to expect after your referral
Once your online GP consultation is complete and your doctor has determined a referral is clinically appropriate, the referral letter will be emailed to you, typically within a few hours. Your GP can also send the referral directly to the specialist's rooms on your behalf. The letter includes relevant medical history, your current symptoms, and the clinical reason for the referral, giving the specialist the context they need before your appointment.
After receiving your referral, the next step is to contact the specialist's clinic to book an appointment. Wait times vary depending on the type of specialist and your location — some specialists may have availability within weeks, while others may have longer wait lists. When attending your specialist appointment, bring your referral letter, your Medicare card, any previous imaging or pathology results, and a list of current medications.
Keep in mind that a standard GP referral is valid for 12 months. If your referral expires before you see the specialist, your GP can issue a new one through another bulk billed telehealth consultation. If you have questions about your referral or need it resent, your NewDoc GP is available to help.
Why choose NewDoc for referrals?
All NewDoc consultations are conducted by fully qualified General Practitioners with FRACGP fellowship. This means your referral letter comes from a doctor with specialist training in general practice, which some specialists prefer when triaging new patients.
There are no hidden fees. The referral, along with any scripts or certificates issued during the same consultation, is included at no additional cost. Same-day appointments are available seven days a week, so you can get your referral without waiting days for a GP opening.
Preparing for your referral consultation
To help your GP make the most of your telehealth referral consultation, it can be useful to prepare a few things beforehand. Start by noting your current symptoms, including when they began and how they have changed over time. A clear history helps your doctor assess which specialist is most appropriate and write a more detailed referral letter.
Bring a list of any medications you are currently taking, including over-the-counter supplements. If you have seen a specialist before or had recent imaging or blood tests, have those results available to share with your GP. This information can be included in the referral and may help the specialist prepare for your visit.
If you already know which specialist you would like to see, let your GP know during the consultation. Otherwise, your doctor can recommend a suitable specialist based on your condition and location. Your GP can also advise whether a standard or indefinite referral is more appropriate for your situation.
Consider asking your GP about what to expect from the specialist appointment, whether any tests should be completed beforehand, and how long the referral will remain valid. Being well-prepared may help ensure a smoother process from your online GP consultation through to your specialist visit.