Seeing a health care provider

Finding a doctor

If you’re experiencing symptoms or just want to talk to a doctor, you can visit a general practitioner (GP).

To find a doctor in your local area, you can use the find a health service tool on the healthdirect website.

If you can’t get to a health care provider

If you live far from a GP, there may providers who can offer telehealth appointments.

If you can’t get a telehealth appointment, the Royal Flying Doctor Service offers primary health care and emergency health.

You can contact The Royal Flying Doctor Service on their website.

Angel Flight is a charity that helps rural Australians access medical treatment. You can request a flight on the Angel Flight website.

You can find more information about rural and remote health on the healthdirect website.

When to see a medical specialist

Your GP may send you to see a medical specialist if they think specific expertise is necessary to diagnose or treat your condition.

A medical specialist is an expert in a specific medical field who can diagnose and treat you for different conditions. You may need a letter of referral from your GP.

Getting a second opinion

If you want a second opinion, speak with your GP. You may need a new referral to see a different specialist.

What Medicare covers

Medicare may cover part or all of the cost of seeing a specialist. Read more about getting support if you have illness, injury or disability. You can also use the Medical Cost Finder on the Department of Health and Aged Care website to estimate the costs of seeing a specialist.