A referral is often required even when a patient is not claiming a Medicare rebate because the referral is part of the specialist’s clinical and administrative process, not just a Medicare requirement.

Referral Explanation

A referral from your GP or another medical practitioner provides the dermatologist with important information about why you have been referred, your relevant medical history, current medications, previous treatments and the reason for specialist review.

It also helps ensure the dermatologist has appropriate clinical background before assessing and treating you, particularly where ongoing management or prescription medication may be involved.

The referral requirement is separate from whether you choose to claim Medicare. Even if you are a private patient and do not intend to claim a Medicare rebate, the clinic still requires a current referral before your specialist appointment.

A referral also allows the specialist to communicate with your referring doctor and keep them informed about your diagnosis, treatment and ongoing care, where appropriate.