Seeing a skin specialist in Australia: What you need to know
Noticed a rash that won’t budge? A mole that’s changed shape? Or maybe your skin just isn’t responding to usual treatments?
When your skin’s trying to tell you something, it might be time to call in an expert. In this article, we’ll cover how to see a dermatologist in Australia – whether you need a referral, what to expect and how to know when it’s worth booking in.
What does a dermatologist treat?
Dermatologists focus on your skin, hair and nail health. They diagnose and treat a range of conditions like acne, eczema, psoriasis, rosacea and even skin cancers. They can also help with mole checks, cosmetic concerns and long-term skin management.
Do I need a referral to see a dermatologist?
No referral? No stress. You can see a private dermatologist directly, but if you want to claim a Medicare rebate, you’ll need a GP referral.
Why it’s worth getting a referral
A referral isn’t just about saving money – it saves time. Your dermatologist will have your medical history ready, so there’s no need to repeat yourself. Here’s how a referral can help:
You’ll pay less: If you’re eligible, a GP referral means you can claim part of your consultation back from Medicare.
It saves time: Your dermatologist gets your medical history upfront, so you don’t have to repeat everything.
It supports ongoing care: When you have a chronic skin condition, a referral helps keep your care team, like doctors and other specialists, in sync.
How can I get a referral?
A quick chat with your GP is all it takes to get a referral to see a dermatologist. These days, you have a couple of options for this:
Visit your GP in person – For mild cases that don’t require specialist care, your GP may be able to help you in person, diagnose the issue or suggest a treatment. Of course, they can also write you a referral to see a specialist dermatologist for a second opinion.
Schedule an appointment via telehealth – Most GPs now offer online consultations if getting to a clinic is tricky.
Getting a GP referral covers the essentials, including your symptoms, medical history and any relevant photos to help your dermatologist prepare.
Can I still see a dermatologist without a referral?
Yes, you can book directly with a private dermatologist, but you’ll pay the full consultation fee without the Medicare rebate.
Some clinics may still prefer or require a referral for certain medical cases, particularly for complex or ongoing skin issues. Cosmetic dermatology treatments, such as fillers or chemical peels, usually don’t require a referral and aren’t covered by Medicare.
Do I need a referral if I am concerned about skin cancer?
If you’ve noticed a mole that’s changing shape, colour or size – or a new spot that looks suspicious – your GP should be your first stop for a skin check. They can assess the concern and refer you to a dermatologist or skin cancer clinic if needed. With a referral, you’ll also be eligible for a Medicare rebate. Early detection is key, so don’t put it off.
How long does a referral last?
There is a time limit on your referral, so it is best to try to book in as soon as possible because there may be wait times for appointments. Depending on who you see for the referral, they can last for different periods
From a GP: Typically valid for 12 months. You can use the same one for multiple visits in that first year.
From another specialist: Usually valid for three months.
Do I need a new referral for ongoing treatment?
If your referral has expired and you're continuing treatment, your dermatologist may request an updated referral. It’s best to check before your next appointment to make sure your Medicare rebate still applies.
Your frequently asked questions, answered
Can I get a referral online?
Yes – many online GPs can give you a referral after a telehealth consult, which is a great way to take care of your health without leaving home. Just keep in mind that you’ll usually need to have seen that doctor in person within the past 12 months to be eligible for a Medicare rebate on your telehealth referral. Not all GPs offer telehealth, so it’s worth checking before you book. If you’re unsure, contact the clinic directly.
Recommended: Common questions about your first telehealth appointment
What if I don’t have a regular GP?
No problem, you don’t need a regular GP to get a referral. If you’re an nib member you can search for a GP using the Find a Provider tool.
Can I see a dermatologist online or through telehealth?
Telehealth can be a convenient way to get a referral from your GP, but online dermatology consults are often limited to general advice. For a full diagnosis or treatment plan, an in-person appointment is usually recommended – though this can vary depending on your GP or specialist.
Recommended: What you can and can’t use telehealth for
Do children need referrals?
Yes – if you want the Medicare rebate, you’ll still need a GP referral.
What do I need to bring to my appointment?
Bring your Medicare card, referral, medical records (if you have them) and any photos showing how your condition has changed. Your dermatologist will appreciate the extra context.
Here’s the takeaway
Seeing a dermatologist can help you get the right answers sooner, especially if something’s not improving with over-the-counter treatments. And while a referral isn’t essential, it can help reduce costs and make sure your care is better connected.
If you're an nib member, you may be able to access discounts on selected skin treatments through our partner, hub.health. To get started, complete a quick online questionnaire to check your eligibility. You’ll then have a phone consultation with an Australian-based clinician, who can provide treatment* recommendations based on your medical needs. If prescribed, your treatment will be delivered discreetly to your door.
With the right support and advice, staying on top of your skin health gets a whole lot easier.
The information contained in this article is provided as general information only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For personalised medical advice, always consult your qualified healthcare professional.
*The provision of treatments is not guaranteed. It will be based on the information you provide during your consultation and whether the GP or Nurse Practitioner deems it to be appropriate for the care of your individual health needs. Please note that treatments which have high potential for misuse, abuse or addiction cannot be recommended via telehealth.