When you need a dermatologist referral
A dermatologist is a specialist doctor who diagnoses and treats conditions affecting the skin, hair, and nails. You may need a dermatologist referral if you have a skin condition that has not responded to treatment from your GP, a suspicious mole or lesion that needs specialist assessment, chronic skin conditions such as severe acne, psoriasis, or eczema, or if you need a full skin cancer check by a specialist.
With NewDoc, you can get a dermatologist referral online through a bulk billed telehealth consultation. Your GP will assess your concern, discuss your symptoms, and provide a referral letter that you can take to the dermatologist of your choice.
Common conditions requiring a dermatologist
Acne is one of the most common reasons for dermatologist referrals, particularly when it is severe, scarring, or has not improved with over-the-counter treatments or GP-prescribed medications. A dermatologist can prescribe specialised treatments including isotretinoin (Roaccutane) and other therapies not available through a GP.
Eczema and psoriasis that are difficult to manage may also benefit from specialist input. Dermatologists can offer advanced treatments including biologics, phototherapy, and specialised topical regimens. For suspicious moles or skin lesions, a dermatologist can perform dermoscopy, biopsies, and arrange surgical removal if needed.
Other common referral reasons include rosacea, hair loss (alopecia), chronic hives (urticaria), fungal infections that have not responded to standard treatment, and skin conditions requiring patch testing for allergies.
How to get your referral through telehealth
Book a consultation on the NewDoc website and select a convenient time. During your video or phone consultation, describe your skin concern to the GP. You can share photos of the affected area during the call, which helps the doctor assess whether a dermatologist referral is appropriate.
If the GP determines a referral is warranted, the referral letter will be emailed to you after the consultation. The letter includes your medical history, current symptoms, any treatments already tried, and the reason for the referral. You can then contact the dermatologist of your choice to book an appointment.
Medicare and costs
The GP telehealth consultation to obtain your referral is bulk billed for eligible Medicare patients, meaning there is no out-of-pocket cost. The referral letter is included at no extra charge.
With a valid GP referral, Medicare will cover a portion of the dermatologist's fee. The exact out-of-pocket cost depends on whether the dermatologist bulk bills or charges a gap. Without a referral, you would need to pay the full cost of the specialist consultation. A standard GP referral is valid for 12 months from the date of issue.