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You can see an ophthalmologist without a referral, but you'll need a valid referral to get the full Medicare rebate. The referral can come from a doctor, including a Doccy doctor, or from an optometrist. Doctor and optometrist referrals are valid for 12 months from your first appointment unless the referrer says otherwise. If your symptoms came on suddenly or are severe, don't wait for a referral. See an optometrist today or go to an emergency department.

Optometrists are usually your first stop for eye problems. They examine your eyes with specialist equipment, diagnose and manage many eye conditions, and most can prescribe eye drops. You don't need a referral, and most consultations are covered by Medicare. Ophthalmologists are medical doctors who specialise in eye disease and eye surgery, such as cataract surgery, glaucoma treatment and retinal conditions. To get the full Medicare rebate for an ophthalmologist, you need a referral from a doctor or an optometrist.

A standard ophthalmology referral is valid for 12 months, counted from your first appointment with the specialist rather than the date it was written. This covers multiple appointments including the initial consultation, any procedures or surgeries, and follow-up visits for the same condition. For ongoing chronic conditions like glaucoma, you'll need a new referral annually.

Yes, Doccy can issue referrals for cataract assessment and surgery. If you're experiencing cloudy or blurred vision, difficulty with glare, or have been told by your optometrist that you have cataracts, our doctors can provide an appropriate referral to an ophthalmologist for surgical assessment.

A referral is for non-urgent specialist care, such as cataracts that affect daily life, glaucoma or raised eye pressure, diabetic eye disease, macular degeneration, or a condition your optometrist has recommended specialist review for. Sudden vision changes, new flashes or floaters, severe eye pain and eye injuries need to be checked the same day by an optometrist or an emergency department, not through a referral.

With Doccy, most ophthalmology referrals are issued same-day, often within hours of completing your consultation. Once our AHPRA-registered doctor reviews your case and confirms your symptoms, your referral is emailed directly to you so you can book with your chosen ophthalmologist immediately.

Yes, a valid referral to an ophthalmologist covers all consultations, investigations, and procedures including surgery for the condition described. This includes cataract surgery, laser treatments, and other procedures. Medicare rebates apply to these services when performed with a valid referral.

For most new eye problems, see an optometrist first. That includes red, sore, itchy or watery eyes, blurred vision, and new flashes or floaters. Optometrists can examine your eye properly, treat many conditions and refer you straight to an ophthalmologist if you need one. If you already have a diagnosed eye condition that needs specialist care, a referral to an ophthalmologist is the right next step.