Do I need a referral to see a specialist?

When you have a niggling that won’t go away or a more concrete concern in relation to your child’s health and/or development it is often confusing as to where to turn to first.

Do you need to see a specialist? Do you need a referral to see a specialist? How do you go about accessing professional help? What are the steps?

These and many more questions are always at the start of the journey to finding help and/or answers or professional assistance.

In most instances you are best to start your journey at your family doctor.

Whilst you do not always need a referral, as there are lots of services that families can access directly, by seeing your doctor you are often able to ascertain the best avenue. A doctor will provide a consult and be able to discuss options if necessary on the best path for your individual needs. They may prescibe tests themselves as the beginning to rule out things and gain a better understanding of where you child is at to accompany your information provided.

Generally, a referral is not necessary to access services such as a speech pathologist or occupational therapist.

A self referral is normally considered adequate. Although it does depend on the specialist and their location.

You may need a referral from a Dr or other specialist, for example, to use an occupational therapist via some public health services (ie hospitals).

To access a Medicare rebate, a referral from the GP or relevant medical specialist will be necessary.

When a referral is received additional information may be gathered and a decision will be made as to the appropriateness and urgency of the referral.

The parent and the referrer will be informed of the decision and given further advice as appropriate.