No, you do not need a referral to see a physiotherapist in Queensland for a private appointment. Physiotherapists are registered first-contact practitioners, which means you can call the clinic today and book directly, the same as booking a dentist. Referrals only enter the picture when someone else is paying.
When you do need paperwork
| Situation | What you need | From whom |
|---|---|---|
| Private appointment | Nothing, just book | |
| Medicare-rebated visits for a chronic condition | GP Chronic Condition Management Plan referral | Your GP |
| Work injury under WorkCover Queensland | Work capacity certificate and a claim | Your doctor; claim via WorkCover |
| DVA-funded treatment | D904 referral | Your GP |
| Road accident (CTP) | Claim number and insurer approval | CTP insurer |
| Private health extras rebate | Nothing, just your fund card |
Should you see your GP first anyway?
Sometimes, and we will be straight about when. If your problem is a musculoskeletal injury, a physio is an appropriate first stop, and part of our assessment is screening for the presentations that belong with a doctor first, such as suspected fractures, unexplained systemic symptoms or neurological red flags. When screening picks something up, we stop and refer, and we write to your GP so nothing falls between the two of us. First-contact does not mean instead of your GP; it means you do not need permission to get a sore shoulder assessed.
No referral, no problem
Call the clinic and book directly. If your situation needs GP paperwork for a rebate, reception will tell you exactly what to ask your doctor for.
Call (07) 5221 5254Can a physio order X-rays or MRIs?
Physiotherapists can refer for many X-rays, and for some other imaging the practical path runs through your GP, partly because of how Medicare rebates imaging. Where imaging is indicated we arrange the fastest funded route.
Can a physio write a medical certificate?
Physiotherapists can certify for conditions within their scope for many employers, but WorkCover claims specifically require a work capacity certificate from a doctor, nurse practitioner or dentist.
My GP referred me somewhere else. Can I still come to you?
Yes. Under Medicare chronic condition arrangements and WorkCover alike, the choice of physiotherapist is yours.