Specialists: fees and availability
Specialist services are provided through outpatient specialist clinics in many Queensland public hospitals and private hospitals. These services usually don’t require admission to a hospital.
How much does it cost to see a specialist?
Public specialist clinics
If you have a Medicare card, you can see a specialist free of charge through the public health system.
You will need to show your Medicare card at each appointment.
Fees may be charged for some services and supplies, such as:
- dental
- spectacles
- hearing aids
- surgical supplies
- prostheses
- pharmaceutical co-payments
- other aids and appliances.
If you do not have a Medicare card, you will be charged a fee for all outpatient services you receive.
Private practice specialist clinics
There are some private practice specialist clinics available at public and private hospitals, or at private offices.
The services provided by a private practice specialist are not free of charge, but Medicare and private health insurance rebates may apply.
You should ask the specialist for their fees, and if rebates apply before you have your consultation or treatment. Depending on the rebates available, you may have to show your Medicare card.
If you have private health insurance, check with your insurer what private practice specialist costs are covered.
Appointments and availability
Your doctor will need to provide a referral for you to see a specialist.
Appointments with a specialist are based on clinical need. Due to the high demand for specialist services, those with the greatest need have priority.
Your doctor will have provided information about your medical condition to the hospital in your referral. A clinician at the hospital will prioritise your appointment based on this information.
Waiting times for some clinics can be more than 12 months. If your appointment is not for some time, or you feel your condition has become worse, you can speak to your doctor to update your referral or to discuss other treatment options.
Find out more about medical specialist locations and referrals.