Patient Resources
How to Get a
GP Referral in Sydney
Why Do You Need a GP Referral for Plastic Surgery?
In Australia, obtaining a GP referral is required before undergoing plastic surgery. This process serves several important purposes and is linked to both regulatory requirements and potential Medicare benefits.
A GP referral is essential because your general practitioner can assess your overall health, discuss your motivations for surgery, and identify any potential risks or contraindications. This step helps make sure plastic surgery is appropriate for your individual circumstances and that you’re well-informed about the procedure.
From a Medicare perspective, GP referrals are crucial for accessing benefits. While many cosmetic procedures are not covered by Medicare, some reconstructive plastic surgeries may be eligible for rebates. To qualify for these benefits, a valid referral from a GP to a specialist is required. This referral process helps Medicare manage healthcare resources efficiently and makes sure patients receive appropriate care.
The referral system also promotes continuity of care. Your GP has a comprehensive understanding of your medical history and can provide valuable insights to the plastic surgeon. This collaboration between healthcare providers can lead to better outcomes and reduced risks.
AHPRA Regulations Regarding GP Referrals for Plastic Surgery
The Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) is responsible for regulating healthcare practitioners in Australia. According to AHPRA guidelines, it is essential to obtain a valid referral from a registered medical practitioner before undergoing plastic surgery.
Referral requirements state that a referral must be in writing, dated, and signed by the referring practitioner. The referring practitioner must consider the need for the referral and provide the specialist with any necessary information about the patient’s condition.
This referral helps you receive appropriate medical advice and prioritises your safety and well-being.
Where to Get a GP Referral in Sydney
To obtain a GP referral in Sydney, you can follow these steps:
- Book an appointment with your regular GP or a local GP clinic that provides referrals for plastic surgery.
During your appointment, discuss your - reasons for seeking plastic surgery and any specific procedures you are considering.
- Your GP will assess your medical history, current health status, and suitability for surgery.
- If your GP determines you are a suitable candidate, they will provide you with a referral to Dr Mark Kohout.
If you don’t have a regular GP, consider the following options:
Online GP services that offer virtual consultations and referrals
Here are some online GP services offering virtual consultations and referrals in Australia:
- Instant Consult
- Offers online GP consultations and referrals
- Available 24/7
- Bulk-billed for eligible Medicare cardholders
- Qoctor
- Provides online GP consultations, prescriptions, and referrals
- Available 7 days a week
- Fees start at $19.99 for a standard consult
- GP2U
- Offers online GP consultations, prescriptions, and referrals
- Available Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm
- Bulk-billed for eligible Medicare cardholders
- Doctors on Demand
- Offers online GP consultations, prescriptions, and referrals
- Available 7 days a week
- Bulk-billed for eligible Medicare cardholders
Walk-in clinics that provide GP services without the need for an appointment
- Darlinghurst 7 Day Medical Centre
- Located at 213-219 Darlinghurst Road, Darlinghurst NSW 2010
- Open 7 days a week, 7am to 6pm
- Bulk-billing available for eligible Medicare cardholders
- Bondi Junction Medical & Dental Centre
- Located at 3A Bronte Road, Bondi Junction NSW 2022
- Open Monday to Friday, 7am to 8pm; Saturday and Sunday 8am to 3pm
- Private billing, with Medicare rebates available
- Chatswood Medical & Dental Centre
- Located at 270 Victoria Ave, Chatswood NSW 2067
- Open Monday to Thursday, 7am to 8pm; Friday 7am to 6pm; Saturday and Sunday 8am to 6pm
- Private billing, with Medicare rebates available
- Green Square Health
- Located at 4/965 Bourke Street, Waterloo NSW 2017
- Open Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm; Saturday 9am to 1pm
- Bulk-billing available for eligible Medicare cardholders
What Information Should Be Included in a GP Referral?
A comprehensive GP referral should include the following information:
- Your medical history and current health status
- The reason for seeking plastic surgery
- The specific procedure you are considering
- Any relevant test results or imaging
- Your GP’s assessment of your suitability for surgery
This information will help Dr Mark Kohout understand your individual needs and develop a personalised treatment plan.
It is important to note that a GP referral is valid for a single course of treatment for 12 months after the first service given. The referral period begins on the date of the first specialist visit, not the date the referral was written.
In some cases, indefinite referrals may be used for patients with chronic conditions that require ongoing care and management by a specialist. A new referral should only be requested if a new condition develops.
Next Steps after Obtaining a GP Referral
Once you have obtained a GP referral, you can take the following steps:
- Contact Dr Mark Kohout’s practice to schedule a consultation.
- During your initial consultation, Dr Kohout will review your referral, discuss your goals and expectations, and assess your suitability for surgery.
- If you decide to proceed with surgery, Dr Kohout’s team will provide you with detailed information on how to prepare for your procedure.
FAQs about GP Referral for Plastic Surgery
Can I get plastic surgery without a GP referral?
It is highly recommended to obtain a GP referral before seeing a plastic surgeon. A referral ensures that you receive proper medical guidance and that your plastic surgeon has all the necessary information to provide you with the best possible care.
How long is a GP referral valid for?
In most cases, a GP referral is valid for 12 months from the date of issue.
Will my health insurance cover the cost of plastic surgery?
Coverage for plastic surgery varies depending on your health insurance policy and the specific procedure you are considering.
Is it legal for a GP or referring doctor to backdate a referral?
No, it is against the law for a GP or referring doctor to backdate a referral. Doing so can result in Medicare benefits not being paid to the patient and potential legal consequences for the doctor.
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Dr. Mark Kohout
Dr. Mark Kohout is a highly qualified specialist plastic and reconstructive surgeon with over 25 years of experience, based in central Sydney.
Trained in Great Britain, Australia, and the U.S., he co-founded Australia Plastic Surgery. Specializing in breast, genital, and male breast surgeries, he is a certified member of the Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) and the Royal Australian College of Surgeons (RACS).
Dr. Kohout has appeared in media like The Biggest Loser and has published several articles in his field.
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