Practical health guide
How to prepare for a specialist referral
A referral is most useful when it communicates a clear clinical question and the relevant history, findings and results.
Gather relevant information
Have previous letters, reports, test results, medication lists and the details of the proposed specialist available. Mention what has already been tried and what question you want addressed.
Assessment may come first
The referring doctor may recommend examination or preliminary tests before deciding whether, where or how urgently to refer. A referral is not guaranteed.
Check practical details
Confirm the referral recipient, validity, how it will be sent, and whether the specialist clinic accepts it. The specialist controls availability and fees; ask the clinic about costs and Medicare eligibility.
Clinical review
Reviewed by Dr Dong Zhao
Australian-registered Medical Doctor · Content reviewed 15 August 2026
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