Specialist referrals online in Australia

An Abby clinician can issue a referral to most Australian specialists during an online consultation, including dermatologists, gynaecologists, gastroenterologists, cardiologists, mental health specialists, and many others. The referral letter is valid for the standard 12 months and unlocks the Medicare rebate when you see the specialist. Bulk billed for eligible patients with a valid Medicare card.

How a specialist referral works in Australia

To claim the Medicare rebate when seeing a specialist, Australian patients need a referral from a GP. The referral letter records the reason for the referral, the relevant clinical history, and any investigations to date. It is sent to the specialist of your choice or to a generic 'any specialist' recipient, and is valid for 12 months from the date of issue for ongoing referrals, or 3 months from a specialist-to-specialist referral.

Without a referral, the specialist visit is still possible but not Medicare-rebated. Gap fees on specialist consultations are often significant, so getting the referral matters.

What an Abby consultation for a referral involves

A referral is not a paperwork exercise. Your Abby clinician will:

• Take a structured history of the concern that prompted the referral request.
• Review your relevant medical history, current medications, and any investigations.
• Decide whether a specialist referral is the right next step.
• Discuss which specialty makes most sense and, where appropriate, suggest a named specialist.
• Write the referral letter, which is sent to your nominated specialist or kept for you to use.
• Arrange any investigations such as blood tests or imaging that should accompany the referral.

The referral letter is generated during or shortly after the consultation and is available in your Abby account.

Specialists we commonly refer to

Common specialist referrals issued through Abby include dermatology, gynaecology, gastroenterology, endocrinology, cardiology, respiratory medicine, rheumatology, neurology, psychiatry, ear nose throat (ENT), urology, and ophthalmology. This is not exhaustive. If your situation calls for a specialty not listed, your Abby clinician will discuss whether a referral is appropriate.

When in-person review is needed first

Some referrals require a clinical examination before they can be safely written. A suspected breast lump usually needs a hands-on examination before referral to breast surgery. Some neurological referrals are stronger with an examination on record. Your Abby clinician will be honest about whether an online consultation is sufficient or whether in-person review should come first.

Specialist costs and the rebate

Specialist consultations are partly covered by Medicare. Most specialists charge a gap above the rebate. The exact gap varies by specialist and is set independently of Abby. Your Abby clinician can discuss what to expect on cost and, where helpful, suggest specialists with lower gaps or bulk-billing arrangements.

Frequently asked questions

Does my referral have to go to a specific specialist?

No. The referral can name a specific specialist or be addressed to 'Dear Specialist', which lets you choose any specialist in the relevant field.

How long is the referral valid?

A GP referral is valid for 12 months for the management of the referred condition, or 'indefinite' if the GP specifies so for chronic conditions. Specialist-to-specialist referrals are valid for 3 months.

Can I get a referral renewed online?

Yes, where clinically appropriate. The clinician will discuss whether the referral can be renewed or whether a fresh GP review is the better step.

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