Seeing a GP, specialist or getting tests and scans

General Practitioners (GPs)

Your GP is usually the first person you go to if you have a health issue. They can coordinate your health care and look after you through your whole life. You can find information about the role of a GP on the healthdirect website.

Specialists

You can find a specialist or allied health professional using the Service Finder on the healthdirect website.

Referral for a specialist

Your GP may refer you to a medical specialist or allied health professional. Most referrals last for 12 months. If you have a referral, you may get some costs covered by Medicare. Learn more about referrals on the healthdirect website.

No referral for a specialist

You may see a specialist or allied health professional without a referral, but the costs won’t be covered by Medicare. Learn more about referrals on the healthdirect website.

Costs for seeing a specialist

The cost of seeing a specialist varies. Learn about the typical cost of common services, using the Medical Costs Finder on the Department of Health, Disability and Ageing website.

Some of the costs may be covered by Medicare or private health insurance if you have it. Find out about Medicare and how it can help with the costs for seeing a specialist.

Screening tests and scans

You may need a referral to get screening tests and scans. Medicare may cover the cost, depending on the type of service and referral.

You can also find information about diagnostic tests or use the Service Finder on the healthdirect website.