Request a Haematologist Referral Online

A haematologist is a medical professional who diagnoses and treats diseases of the blood, bone marrow, and lymphatic system. They treat disorders involving red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets, and bleeding/clotting processes.

• Anaemia: characterised by a low red blood cell count or haemoglobin, which causes weariness and weakness.
• Leukaemia: a malignancy of blood-forming tissues that affects white blood cells.
• Lymphoma: a malignancy of the lymphatic system.
• Thrombocytopenia: low platelet count, resulting in bleeding
• Thrombocythema: high platelet count, resulting in clotting.
• Haemophilia: a genetic condition affecting blood clotting and causes bleeding.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) refers to blood clots in deep veins.

In Australia, a GP referral to a haematologist is usually valid for 12 months. When a referral is issued by another specialist, it is typically valid for three months. Patients should double-check the validity period indicated on their referral.

Follow-up appointments are often covered within the referral validity period. If the referral expires, you must obtain a new one from a general practitioner to continue receiving Medicare benefits.

Some haematologists provide bulk billing, particularly in public hospitals. However, many private experts demand consultation fees, which may require out-of-pocket spending.

Yes, you can request that your GP send you to a specific haematologist. This is advantageous if you have been recommended to see a specific specialist or if you value ongoing treatment.

Referrals are often directed to a specific clinician or healthcare environment. It is suggested that you clarify with the hospital or clinic whether your referral may be utilised in both systems.

Yes, after-hours GP services, including telehealth providers, can refer patients to haematologists if clinically appropriate. This enables quick access to specialised care.

Call 000 or attend an Emergency Department immediately if you experience:

• Severe or uncontrollable bleeding that will not stop
• Sudden chest pain or difficulty breathing (possible blood clot in the lungs — pulmonary embolism)
• Sudden weakness, facial drooping, or difficulty speaking (possible stroke)
• High fever with extreme weakness or chills (possible serious infection or sepsis)
• Loss of consciousness or collapse

Do not book a telehealth referral for these presentations. A haematologist referral via telehealth is appropriate for non-emergency concerns such as abnormal blood test findings, unexplained anaemia, or monitoring of known blood disorders.

Yes, a blood clot can cause a medical emergency, especially if it spreads to the lungs or brain. Symptoms such as chest discomfort, trouble breathing, swelling, and leg pain demand immediate medical intervention.

• Low or high hemoglobin levels
• Abnormal white blood cell count.
• Low/high platelet levels.
• Abnormal clotting test findings.
• Abnormal cells were detected in blood tests.

Yes, online general practitioners can review your symptoms and test results, and if necessary, refer you to a haematologist. Telehealth provides convenient access to specialised treatment.