From 2023 to 2024, approximately 84% of Australians had at least one Medicare-subsidised GP appointment. Yet, despite the widespread use of Medicare, many patients still ask: “Does Medicare cover dermatologist appointments?”
The answer is yes—Medicare does offer rebates for dermatology consultations, provided the session is medically necessary and you have a valid referral from your GP.
This guide is about Medicare coverage, specifically dermatologist consults and treatments. It also includes how GP referral letters work and how to get one for your next dermatologist consultation.
When Does Medicare Cover Dermatologist Visits?
Medicare helps cover the cost of dermatologist consultations when the reason for your visit relates to a medical skin condition, such as:
- Eczema or psoriasis
- Rosacea
- Acne
- Acne scarring
- Suspicious moles or skin lesions
- Inflammatory or autoimmune skin disorders
- A pigmented spot or spots
- For a full skin examination
These types of conditions may qualify for a partial Medicare rebate, as they are considered clinically necessary and not cosmetic in nature.
What You Need to Access Medicare Rebates
To be eligible for a Medicare rebate for dermatology services, you’ll need to:
- Have a valid referral letter from a GP: This referral means Medicare will provide a rebate toward the cost of your dermatologist consultation, investigations, or treatment if clinically indicated.
- See a specialist dermatologist: Your GP can refer you to a Dermatologist like those at Dr Refresh. This ensures your referral is valid for Medicare purposes.
At Dr Refresh, we work closely with referring GPs to ensure each patient receives appropriate, individualised care. If your condition meets Medicare’s criteria, our specialist clinical staff will guide you through the process of claiming your rebate and explain any out-of-pocket costs upfront.
What Dermatology Services Are Not Covered?
Only medically necessary Medicare covers dermatology consults, tests, and treatments. The following are not included:
- Cosmetic mole removal
- Anti-wrinkle or laser resurfacing for aesthetic reasons
- Skincare consultations for cosmetic purposes
- Botox and fillers for wrinkle reduction
- Skin rejuvenation
- Hair removal treatments
- Chemical peels for skin resurfacing
- Microneedling for collagen stimulation
- Body contouring
- Microdermabrasion treatments
- Tattoo removal
- Photorejuvenation
Do You Need a GP Referral to See a Dermatologist?
No. Dr Ritu is happy to see you without a referral. However, to claim a Medicare rebate for a dermatology visit, you’ll need a valid referral from your GP. This referral helps you access specialist care with some of the costs covered by Medicare.
Who Can Give You a Referral?
Most referral letters come from your GP or other doctors. These allow you to see a range of health professionals, such as:
- Dermatologists
- Psychologists
Physiotherapists - Imaging services like X-rays and ultrasounds
- Pathology services like blood tests
Other registered health professionals can also refer you in some cases. These include dentists, optometrists, physiotherapists, and psychologists.
How Long Is a Referral Valid?
Most GP referrals last 12 months. That covers one course of treatment for a specific skin concern. You can return to the same specialist during that time for that specific concern without needing a new letter.
Some skin conditions, like skin cancer, need ongoing care. Your GP might issue a longer referral. Sometimes there is no set expiry date.
You’ll need a new referral if a new skin issue arises. You can also ask your GP for another referral if you want a second opinion from a different specialist.
At Dr Refresh, we’re here to help you every step of the way. Our specialist clinical staff can guide you or speak directly with your GP if you’re unsure about your referral.
Medicare Rebates, Bulk Billing and Out-of-Pocket Costs
Dermatology consultation costs can vary. It depends on whether it’s your first visit or a follow-up. It also depends on the clinic’s location, the doctor’s expertise, and the time needed for treatment.
If Medicare covers your consultation, you won’t need to pay the full fee. Medicare pays a portion and you cover the out-of-pocket amount.
How to Claim Your Medicare Rebate
Bring your Medicare card or have your number ready at your appointment. There are several ways to claim:
- Directly at the clinic (we offer same-day rebate processing)
- Through Medicare online
- Using the Express Plus Medicare app
- By mail (using a Medicare claim form)
- At a Medicare service centre
What Is Bulk Billing?
Bulk billing means the doctor accepts the Medicare rebate as full payment. You pay nothing out of pocket.
Most specialist practices do not offer bulk billing. At Dr Refresh, we are a private billing practice and do not bulk bill. We’re happy to explain your fees upfront so there are no surprises.
What About Skin Cancer Checks and Biopsies?
Yes, Medicare does provide a rebate towards skin cancer checks and biopsies—but you’ll need a valid referral from your GP.
These services are billed using specific Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS) item numbers. Medicare provides a partial rebate, and you will need to pay the out-of-pocket gap, depending on the procedure and clinic.
Examples of Medicare-Covered Procedures
- Cryotherapy for multiple premalignant lesions: MBS item 30192
- Routine skin biopsy: MBS item 30071
Out-of-pocket costs vary depending on the item number, whether your treatment is in a public or private setting, and whether you’re using private health insurance.
Public vs Private Clinic Wait Times
You can book skin cancer checks at public or private clinics. The difference often comes down to wait times.
- Private clinics: Often offer quicker access, sometimes within a few days.
- Public hospitals: Very few public hospitals in NSW have outpatient dermatology clinics. Those that do have long wait times, especially for non-urgent cases. In most cases, wait times will extend to several months.
At Dr Refresh, we aim to see referred patients promptly and provide thorough, individualised skin cancer assessments.
Why Choose Dr Refresh For Your Skin Treatment
Led by Dr Ritu, Dr Refresh focuses on providing personalised non-invasive treatments to achieve results that align with individual aesthetic goals.
Schedule a consultation with Dr Ritu and her specialist clinical team by calling us on (02) 8014 6500 or make an enquiry online.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I see a dermatologist without a referral in Australia?
Yes, you can consult a dermatologist even without a referral in Australia. But you won’t be eligible for a Medicare rebate.
2. Are acne treatments covered by Medicare?
Medicare covers some of the cost of acne treatments that are medically necessary, such as acne scarring, but not for cosmetic purposes.
3. What if my dermatologist doesn’t bulk bill?
You can always take advantage of Medicare’s rebate, which covers a percentage of the cost of the treatment or consultation.
4. Are cosmetic treatments ever covered?
Medicare does not cover cosmetic treatments. You will have to pay in full for these procedures.
