Online Specialist Referral Letters sent to you

Why would you need a Specialist Referral Letter?

Specialists are doctors with extensive training and education in their respective fields, equipping them with the expertise necessary to address intricate medical issues comprehensively. These specialists focus on particular health issues that require a higher level of expertise than what a GP can provide. A specialist referral is needed when the primary healthcare professional/GP thinks more specialised knowledge is required to diagnose a medical condition.

Why Are Specialist Referrals Important?

Specialist referrals are crucial for two key reasons:

1. Medical Handover: They provide the specialist with a detailed account of your medical history and current health status, ensuring that you receive the most appropriate and effective treatment.

2. Medicare Rebates: A valid referral is necessary to claim Medicare rebates for specialist consultations. Without a referral, you may be required to pay the full cost of your appointment.

How to get an online referral letter

A referral is a document from a GP that directs you to a specialist or another healthcare provider with the expertise to address your specific needs. Specialist referrals with MediLeave are certified by Australian registered & delivered straight to you via email.

Request a specialist referral via telehealth in four easy steps, as mentioned below.

1. Choose appointment type & fill in details

2. Add payment details

3. Talk to a doctor

4. If approved, instantly receive your referral via email

Common Specialist Referrals:

Skin

Dermatology Referral For Acne

A doctor referral to a dermatology for acne.

Dermatology Referral For General Skin/Mole Check

A doctor referral to a dermatologist for a skin/mole check to check for melanoma and other skin cancers.

Eyes

Ophthalmologist Referral For Age-Related Macular Degeneration

For people over 50 years for age to check for any vision loss.

Ophthalmologist Referral For Cataracts

To check for cataracts whichcan cause visual problems.

Ophthalmologist Referral For Diabetes

For diabetes, who should get an eye check to screen for Diabetes Retinopathy (eye disease).

Ophthalmologist Referral For Glaucoma

To review or check for signs of glaucoma which can cause vision loss.

Colonoscopy

Gastroenterology (Colonoscopy) Referral For Initial Screen

For patients over 50 years of age with risk factors such as family history or bowel symptoms like rectal bleeding or altered bowel habit.

Gastroenterology (Colonoscopy) Referral For 3-5-year Check-up

For those patients that get a regular colonoscopy every 3-5 years as part of surveillance to check for polyps and bowel cancer.

Frequently Asked Questions about Telehealth Appointments

1. What is a referral?

Referrals are common when a patient requires specialised care beyond the scope of the primary care provider’s expertise or when further evaluation or treatment is necessary. Referrals are also issued for medical services such as pathology tests, blood tests, and radiology tests if the doctor issuing it thinks further examination is necessary before concluding a patient’s condition.

2. Can you get referrals via telehealth appointment?

Yes, a referral can be requested via a telehealth appointment. If the online doctor or health practitioner thinks that a referral is necessary for further investigation of your medical condition, they will issue an online referral letter which will be sent to you through email. It is to be noted that medical practitioners could also refuse to issue a referral if they think the medical condition doesn’t require a specialist or a diagnostic test. In this case, they will give you medical advice and could even provide you with an online script, if warranted.

3. Can I see a specialist without a referral?

Yes, but without a referral, you won’t be eligible for Medicare rebates, meaning you’ll have to pay the full consultation fee out of pocket. Additionally, some specialists may not see patients without a referral

4. How long is a referral valid for in Australia?

According to Services Australia, when a general practitioner (GP) refers a patient to a specialist, the referral typically remains valid for 12 months from the date the specialist first sees the patient, unless specified otherwise. This duration ensures that patients receive timely access to specialist care. These medical referral letters can be extended beyond 12 months or can be given for an indefinite period for ongoing care. GPs (General Practitioners) must issue new referrals for any new or unrelated medical conditions requiring specialist intervention beyond the initial referral period.

Online Specialist Referral Letters sent to you