Many patients ask whether a referral is required to see a dermatologist. The answer is simple.
If you want to claim a Medicare rebate, you’ll need a referral from your GP. Without a referral, you can still book a private appointment. However, you’ll need to cover the full cost yourself.
In this guide, we’ll explain how the referral process works and why having a referral is usually the most cost-effective option. You’ll also learn how to get one and what to expect at your first specialist appointment.
When Is a Referral Required?
A referral is a letter from your GP or another registered health professional that allows you to see a specialist for expert care.
With a valid referral, Medicare may cover part of the cost of your consultation, tests or treatment if they are considered medically necessary.
Your GP can refer you to:
- A dermatologist or other specialist doctor
- Imaging services like X-rays or radiology
Pathology services such as blood tests - Allied health professionals like physiotherapists or psychologists
Your GP will assess your condition and recommend the most appropriate specialist to support your care.
How long do referral letters last?
Most GP referral letters last for 12 months. This is adequate time to cover a single course of treatment for a health condition. The referral letter covers all your visits to the specialist for a specific condition.
However, your GP may write a referral longer than 12 months or a referral with no end date for chronic or ongoing health conditions.
If you have a new health issue, you need to get a new referral. If a specialist refers you to another specialist, the referral letter only lasts three months.
What medical skin conditions require a referral?
For many medical skin conditions, a referral from your GP is advisable, especially if you’re planning to claim a Medicare rebate.
Common reasons for a dermatology referral include:
- Acne, rashes, moles, and skin infections
- Rosacea, eczema and psoriasis
- Skin checks
- Acute or severe skin conditions
- Skin diseases that haven’t responded to first-line treatments
- Rare or inherited skin disorders
- Suspected or confirmed skin cancer
Your GP will assess your symptoms and refer you to a dermatologist if specialist care is needed.
Can You See a Dermatologist Without a Referral?
Yes, you can consult a dermatologist without a referral. However, you will not qualify for a Medicare rebate. You will pay all treatment and testing expenses related to your condition in full.
If you don’t have a referral and need to see a dermatologist immediately, you can visit a private clinic offering appointments without a GP referral. This means you can directly schedule a consultation without seeing a GP or a healthcare provider.
What Does a Referral Help With?
A referral offers many benefits to patients:
- Allows access to Medicare rebates: You can use your Medicare benefits to save money on tests and treatments. The money you save may be used to pay for medications, further diagnostic tests, and miscellaneous expenses related to your condition.
- Helps triage priority appointments for medical concerns: A referral from your GP ensures you’re getting the right care. It leads you to specific treatments and specialists, eliminating the guesswork of finding the right specialist for the best care.
- Ensures continuity of care between GP and dermatologist: Referral letters ensure continuous treatment, so you can get well ASAP. You will not waste time, effort, and money looking for specialists to help diagnose and treat your condition.
- Used for chronic condition planning or treatment tracking: Referral letters can facilitate the planning and treatment of chronic illnesses, allowing specialists to handle your condition more efficiently and effectively.
How to Get a Referral for a Dermatologist
Here are the steps to get a referral from your GP so you can consult a dermatologist:
- Schedule an appointment with your GP: Your GP is your first point of contact. They will guide you to the right skin specialist to consult for your condition.
- Explain your skin concern (acne, rash, mole checks, etc.): During your appointment, describe your issue. They will conduct initial screenings and tests and take your medical history to help them assess.
- Ask for a referral letter to see a dermatologist: If appropriate, your GP will write a referral letter. They will also give you instructions on using the letter, especially when applying for Medicare rebates.
- Bring the referral letter to your dermatologist: Take the GP referral letter with you to your dermatology consultation.
How Dr Refresh Can Help You
Dr Refresh is Sydney’s premier dermatology clinic and we works with GPs and online referral platforms to help patients get personalised, quality treatments.
During your initial appointment, Dr Ritu and her team of experienced specialist clinical staff will conduct a thorough, personalised assessment. We will consider your health history and create a holistic treatment plan designed for the best results.
Call the Dr Refresh team at (02) 8014 6500 to book a consultation. Alternatively, you can also enquire and book online.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I book directly with a dermatologist?
Yes, you can book directly with a dermatologist, but you cannot claim Medicare rebates.
2. How long is a referral valid?
A referral letter is valid for 12 months.
3. Do I need a new referral each time?
A referral letter is valid for 12 months and includes your treatment, tests, and consultation. If your treatment takes longer than a year, you may need to ask for an extended referral letter. You also need a new referral for a new condition or illness.
4. What if my condition gets worse before my appointment?
Contact your GP immediately. They will assess your condition and potentially facilitate an urgent appointment with Dr Ritu.
5. Can I get a referral from an online GP?
Yes, you can get a referral letter from an online GP.
