Request a Pulmonologist Referral Online

A pulmonologist is a medical professional who specialises in the diagnosis and management of lung and respiratory illnesses. They provide care for disorders that impact breathing and lung function.

• Asthma – chronic airway inflammation causing breathing difficulty
• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) – progressive lung disease
• Pneumonia – a lung infection causing inflammation
• Sleep apnoea – interrupted breathing during sleep
• Lung fibrosis – scarring of lung tissue

A GP referral to a pulmonologist is typically valid for 12 months; however, if issued by another specialist, it is only valid for three months. Always check your referral validity period.

Yes, online general practitioners can review your symptoms and medical history. If clinically indicated, they can provide a referral. However, because respiratory conditions often require a physical examination (such as listening to your chest with a stethoscope), your online GP may recommend an in-person consultation if a physical assessment is necessary to safely issue a referral.

Follow-up consultations are covered during the referral period. Once a referral expires, a new one is necessary.

Some pulmonology services in public hospitals are bulk-billed; private physicians may charge fees with potential out-of-pocket expenses.

Yes, you can ask your GP to refer you to a specific pulmonologist for continuity of care.

Referrals are often addressed to a certain provider. It is advisable to establish with the healthcare facility if it can be utilised in both systems.

• Severe or sudden difficulty breathing — particularly if it comes on rapidly or is worsening
• Coughing up blood — especially in significant amounts or with sudden onset
• Blue lips, fingertips, or face (cyanosis) — this indicates dangerously low oxygen levels requiring emergency treatment
• Sudden severe chest pain or tightness — this may indicate a pulmonary embolism, pneumothorax, or cardiac event
• Sudden severe worsening of asthma that does not respond to your inhaler — this is a life-threatening asthma attack
• Loss of consciousness or collapse related to breathing difficulty

A referral often includes consultation. Your GP or pulmonologist may issue a different referral for lung function tests or sleep studies based on your condition.

Not always. Your general practitioner may order initial imaging, but the pulmonologist may also request specialised tests following an examination.