To get a Medicare rebate on a scan, you generally need a referral (request) from a doctor — usually your GP or a specialist. You can normally take that request to the imaging clinic of your choice. Most GP imaging requests are valid for 12 months. MRI has extra rules: the rebate often depends on who referred you and whether the machine is Medicare-licensed.
Key takeaways
- A doctor's referral (request) is generally needed for a Medicare rebate on imaging.
- You can usually choose which imaging clinic to attend with your request.
- Most GP imaging requests are valid for 12 months.
- MRI rebates can depend on who referred you and the machine's Medicare licensing.
For most imaging, you can’t just book a scan yourself and claim a Medicare rebate — you need a referral, also called a request, from a doctor.[1] Here’s how that works in practice.
Who can refer you
Your GP can request most common scans (X-ray, ultrasound, CT). Some tests — and some MRI items in particular — need a request from a specialist.[1] Your referring doctor decides which scan is appropriate, often in discussion with the radiologist, and writes the clinical details on the request so the radiologist knows what to look for.
Can I choose where I go?
Usually yes. A request isn’t tied to one clinic — you can generally take it to the radiology practice that suits your location and budget.[1] One tip: if you’ve had a previous scan of the same area, going back to the same provider lets the radiologist compare the old and new images.
How long is a request valid?
Most GP imaging requests are valid for 12 months from the date they’re written, so you don’t have to use it immediately.[1] (Some referrals work differently — if you’re unsure, check with the practice.)
The MRI rules
MRI has the most specific rules. Whether a Medicare rebate applies can depend on who referred you (GP vs specialist, and for which condition) and whether the scanner is Medicare-licensed for that service.[1] Because an ineligible MRI can be expensive, it’s worth confirming eligibility with the clinic before you book.
Putting it together with cost
A valid referral plus a Medicare-eligible item is what unlocks the rebate — and if the clinic bulk bills, you pay nothing. If not, you pay the gap. So the two questions worth asking when you book are: “Is this scan Medicare-eligible for my referral?” and “Do you bulk bill it?”[2]
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a referral for an X-ray?
For a Medicare rebate, yes — you generally need a request from a doctor. Without one, you may have to pay the full fee.[1]
Can I use my referral at any radiology clinic?
Usually yes — an imaging request isn’t tied to a single provider, so you can choose the clinic that suits you.[1]
My referral is 10 months old — can I still use it?
Usually yes — most GP imaging requests are valid for 12 months. If in doubt, check with the clinic before you attend.[1]
Sources
- Services Australia — Medicare and the Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS) — www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/medicare
- Australian Government Department of Health — Medical Costs Finder — www.health.gov.au/resources/apps-and-tools/medical-costs-finder
