Need a Paediatrician Referral?

Yes, in Australia, you typically need a referral from a GP to see a paediatrician if you want to claim a Medicare rebate. Paediatricians are specialists, and Medicare requires a valid online specialist referral for you to receive a rebate on your consultation fees. The referral helps ensure that your child sees the most appropriate specialist for their needs and allows the paediatrician to access important medical history.
Note: If your child is having difficulty breathing, has a non-blanching rash (a rash that does not fade under pressure), is limp or unresponsive, is under 3 months old with a fever, or is having a seizure — call 000 immediately. Do not book a telehealth referral for these presentations. A paediatrician referral via telehealth is appropriate for non-emergency developmental concerns, chronic conditions, and planned specialist assessment.

Hola Health helps you get a paediatrician referral typically within 15 minutes (Based on typical wait times; may vary by demand and practitioner availability), 24/7, from the comfort of your home. Here’s how:

1. Visit the Hola Health website or app and click on the ” See a Doctor ” button
2. Choose standard consult. Fill in your details, add Medicare details and make a payment.
3. Speak to a licensed telehealth doctor or medical practitioner typically within 15 minutes (Based on typical wait times; may vary by demand and practitioner availability)
4. If approved, your paediatrician referral will be emailed to your registered email address shortly after your consultation.

Once you receive your valid and signed referral letter from an AHPRA-registered Hola Health practitioner.

With Hola Health, your referral will typically be sent to your email shortly after your consultation, upon approval.

A paediatrician is a medical doctor who specialises in the health and medical care of infants, children, and adolescents, typically from birth up to 18 years of age. They are trained to diagnose, treat, and manage a wide range of childhood illnesses, developmental issues, and growth concerns. Paediatricians also provide routine check-ups, immunisations, and guidance on nutrition, behaviour, and overall well-being.

Yes, an online GP can absolutely provide referrals to paediatricians through a telehealth consultation. In Australia, AHPRA-registered online doctors or medical practitioners are qualified to refer patients to medical specialists when further assessment or care is needed, and this includes paediatricians for various child health concerns. Referrals issued via Hola Health are valid across Australia and can help coordinate access to paediatric specialist care.

A paediatrician’s referral allows your child to be assessed and treated by a medical specialist who focuses on the health and development of infants, children, and adolescents. Paediatricians manage a wide range of conditions, both acute and chronic. Common health conditions that can be treated with a paediatrician’s referral include:

• Developmental delays: If your child is not meeting milestones in speech, movement, or social interaction.
• Behavioural and emotional concerns: These include ADHD, anxiety, learning difficulties, and sleep problems.
• Chronic health issues: Children with asthma, diabetes, epilepsy, allergies, or gastrointestinal problems often benefit from ongoing paediatric care.
• Growth or hormonal concerns: If your child is experiencing delayed puberty, abnormal growth patterns, or issues related to hormones.
• Feeding or weight issues: Whether your child has difficulty gaining weight, is a fussy eater, or is experiencing obesity,
• Recurrent infections or immune concerns: Frequent illnesses or suspected immune deficiencies may warrant a paediatrician’s input.
• Speech therapy: For children experiencing delays or difficulties in speech, language, or communication skills.
• Occupational therapy: Helpful for managing fine motor skills, sensory issues, daily routines, or developmental delays.
• Physiotherapy: Supports children with movement issues, muscle weakness, or motor coordination challenges.
• Dietitian support: Especially useful for children with feeding issues, allergies, intolerances, or weight management concerns.
• Hearing and vision assessments: To rule out sensory problems that may affect learning or development.

Note: If your child is having difficulty breathing, has a non-blanching rash (a rash that does not fade under pressure), is limp or unresponsive, is under 3 months old with a fever, or is having a seizure — call 000 immediately. Do not book a telehealth referral for these presentations. A paediatrician referral via telehealth is appropriate for non-emergency developmental concerns, chronic conditions, and planned specialist assessment.