Why is my consultation fee higher for a new or additional concern?

The usual subsequent consultation fee applies when your dermatologist is continuing to assess or manage the condition for which you are already receiving treatment.

If you ask your dermatologist to assess a new or unrelated concern, perform a broader assessment, or provide care outside your existing course of treatment, a consultation fee of $320 may apply instead of the usual $215 subsequent consultation fee.

This may include:

• asking about a new or unrelated skin condition;

• requesting assessment of additional lesions or concerns;

• requesting a general review for other skin problems; or

• requesting a full skin check during a consultation booked for another condition.

The higher fee reflects the broader clinical assessment required and may apply even where the consultation is billed as a subsequent consultation for Medicare purposes.

There may be circumstances where examination of another area or concern is clinically necessary as part of managing your existing condition.

Your dermatologist will determine whether an additional concern forms part of your existing course of treatment or represents a separate clinical assessment.

If the new or additional concern represents a new or unrelated condition or course of treatment, a new referral is required for Medicare benefits to be claimed.

An indefinite referral does not automatically cover new or unrelated dermatological conditions that arise in the future.

If you would like your dermatologist to assess a new concern, please let our reception staff know when booking so that we can allocate an appropriate appointment and explain the likely referral and consultation fee requirements.