Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist?

Some services may accept a self-funded consultation without a referral, but that does not mean Medicare benefits will be available. Public and emergency mental health services have different entry pathways, and urgent help should not be delayed while you arrange paperwork. RANZCP Your Health in Mind: Cost to see a psychiatrist (Australia)

What does a referral do, and who can write it?

A referral asks a specialist to assess or advise on a clinical problem. It gives the psychiatrist relevant information, such as symptoms, previous treatment and the reason specialist input is being sought.

You do not need to know the diagnosis before being referred. The question may be whether your experiences fit ADHD, why a treatment has not helped or whether another condition should be considered.

The receiving clinic uses the information to consider suitability and urgency. A referral does not guarantee acceptance, an appointment by a certain date or a particular treatment.

Who can write the referral?

A GP is a common starting point, and other medical practitioners can also refer within the applicable requirements. An online doctor may be able to prepare a referral after a suitable consultation, provided there is enough clinical information.

If you already see a psychologist, their report may be helpful to the referring doctor and psychiatrist. However, a psychology report should not be assumed to replace the medical referral required for a Medicare specialist appointment.

Bring the clinic's instructions to your doctor, particularly if you are arranging a transfer of care or a specific type of assessment.

Which document do I need, and how long does it last?

No. A standard medical referral to a psychiatrist and a mental health treatment plan serve different purposes. Mental health treatment plans are used in particular Medicare pathways for eligible psychological care; they are not generally required instead of a medical referral for an ordinary psychiatrist consultation. Services Australia: Mental health care and Medicare

If you have been told to obtain a “mental health referral”, ask the receiving service which document it means. This can prevent an unnecessary appointment or a delay while paperwork is clarified.

How long is the referral valid?

A standard GP referral usually lasts 12 months from your first attendance with the specialist, unless a different period is specified. It does not ordinarily begin counting down on the date the GP writes the letter.

Longer or indefinite referrals may be appropriate for ongoing care. A new or unrelated condition can still require a new referral. Referrals from one specialist to another generally have a shorter period, commonly three months for outpatient care.

If you are unsure, send the letter to the clinic and ask it to confirm what is needed. An existing referral period and the need for up-to-date clinical information are separate issues. See Services Australia's referral rules. Services Australia: Referrals for specialist treatment

What if I change clinics or have already attended?

Services Australia's guidance says a referral does not have to name a specific specialist. Patients can choose where to present it. Nevertheless, the receiving clinic needs to confirm that the clinical request is suitable and that it has the information required to accept you.

If you change clinics, contact the new practice before assuming you need to pay for another referral. It may accept your existing letter or request an update because your circumstances or assessment needs have changed.

What if my appointment has already happened?

Contact the psychiatrist's practice promptly and explain the situation. Do not ask a doctor to put a false earlier issue date on a new referral or assume that a later letter will create retrospective Medicare eligibility.

There are specific rules for exceptional situations, including lost referrals and emergencies. The practice can advise on the requirements that apply. For routine care, arranging the referral before the specialist appointment is the clearer approach.

Can Doccio assess my referral needs?

Doccio offers psychiatrist referral consultations with AHPRA-registered doctors. Your doctor assesses whether referral is appropriate and may need previous reports or further assessment before deciding.

The consultation costs $59 during business hours or $79 after hours. Psychiatrist charges are separate, and a referral does not guarantee a rebate or bulk billing. If your concern is possible ADHD, see our ADHD referral service.

If you're having thoughts of self-harm, call 000 or Lifeline on 13 11 14. Lifeline: Lifeline crisis support - 13 11 14

Doccio's psychiatry partner is SetMind, an Australian online psychiatry practice for adults offering ADHD assessments and shared-care plans by telehealth. Your doctor can address a referral to SetMind or to any clinic you prefer; SetMind confirms its fees and any Medicare rebate in writing before you book.

Where to go next

Read about our psychiatrist referral service or start a Doccio referral consultation.