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Pathology and imaging referrals
Pathology referral online for tests and scans
Need blood tests, a urine test or a scan? Where it's clinically appropriate, a bulkbill.doctor GP can write a pathology request or an X-ray, ultrasound or other imaging request after a phone or video consult.
Medically reviewed by Dr Damien Ford
General Practitioner MBBS FRACGP
WHO IT'S FOR
People needing blood tests, X-rays or scans
What is a pathology or imaging referral
A pathology request lets a lab collect and test samples such as blood or urine. An imaging request lets a radiology provider do an X-ray, ultrasound or other scan. At bulkbill.doctor, GPs can write both after a telehealth consult.
Your GP decides which tests are clinically appropriate. Tests aren't ordered from a form alone. Your GP will explain what each test is for, where you can have it done and how you'll be followed up about the results.
What happens in your consult
Your GP will:
 | ask about your symptoms, history and any past results |
 | decide which tests or scans are clinically appropriate |
 | email you a pathology or imaging request |
 | explain how to book or visit a collection centre |
 | talk about how and when you'll get your results |
 | suggest an in-person visit if you need an examination |
Your request is emailed to you after your consult. Book a Long appointment, so there's time to plan your tests and talk about follow-up.
Medicare, tests and scans
Medicare eligibility rules apply. If your consult meets Medicare's rules, it can be bulk billed, and your eligibility is checked when you book. If you're not eligible, a private fee applies.
The cost of a test or scan is separate and set by the provider. Medicare rebates for some scans, such as MRI, depend on strict rules, so check costs with the provider first.
How to book
 | Book online and choose the Long appointment type |
 | Talk with an Australian registered GP by phone or video |
 | If tests are appropriate, your GP emails your request to you |
What you need
| Your Medicare card details, so your eligibility can be checked |
| A private, quiet space and a phone, tablet or computer |
| Any recent results or letters about the same problem |
| A list of any medicines you take |
FAQ
Can I get a pathology referral online?
Yes, where clinically appropriate. After a phone or video consult, a bulkbill.doctor GP can email you a pathology request for blood, urine or other tests.
Can I get an X-ray or ultrasound referral online?
Yes, where clinically appropriate. Your GP can request imaging such as an X-ray or ultrasound after your consult, and email the request to you.
Can I use my request at any provider?
Usually, yes. You can generally take your request to the pathology or radiology provider of your choice. Check with them about bookings, hours and any costs.
How will I get my test results?
Results go to the GP who requested them, and you're copied in. If your results need follow-up, your doctor will contact you to schedule an appointment.
Do I need a referral for a blood test or X-ray?
For Medicare to help cover most tests and scans, you need a request from a doctor. Some providers offer private tests without one, at a cost to you.
Is a pathology referral consult bulk billed?
Anyone can book. Medicare bulk billed if eligible. Your eligibility is checked when you book. Test and scan costs are separate and set by the provider. If you're not eligible, a private fee applies.
Can I choose my own doctor?
Yes. When you book, you can choose the doctor you'd like to see.
How long is a pathology referral appointment?
It's a 20-minute Long phone or video consult, so there's time to plan your tests. Choose a 40-minute Extended appointment for complex or several issues.
Need to see a specialist too? See our online referrals page.
APPOINTMENT
Long
20 minutes to review and plan your tests
CONSULT
Phone or Video
From anywhere in Australia
Need help now?
This is not an emergency service.
If you or someone else is in immediate danger, call 000 or go to your nearest hospital emergency department.
Call 000
Lifeline - 24/7 crisis support
MEDICARE
Medicare bulk billed if eligible
Eligibility checked when you book
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