OSHC STUDENTS

banner image
20 | 01 | 23
299 views
20
01 | 23
2629
299

What do I need to know about what is written on my referral letter?

OSHCstudents – If you need to see a specialist, your GP will give you a referral. So what should you know about the information on your referral letter?

See more: Why are specialist referrals important?

Knowledge is power
Your GP can provide your specialist(s) with the right background information about your health condition and updates. This helps them better understand your needs and coordinate your treatment plan. Keeping the lines of communication open is especially important if you have multiple specialist(s) treating you with your GP.

1. Your referral letter does not have to be addressed to a named specialist

The letter could be addressed to a named specialist or to a specialist type. (e.g. “Dear Cardiologist”). This gives you the flexibility to investigate which specialist might suit you best, without having to keep going back to your referring doctor.

2. How long your referral letter stays valid depends on who wrote it

From your GP: your referral will be valid 12 months UNLESS your GP indicates a different time period (such as 3, 6, 18 or indefinite).

From your specialist: your referral letter to another specialist will only be valid for 3 months.

1. The clock starts ticking on the date of your first consultation, not the date on the letter

Your referral letter expiry date is calculated from the date of your first consultation with the specialist. This means you can continue seeing your specialist (for the same condition), for 12 months from the date of your first specialist appointment. After this, you would require a new referral letter from your GP.

2. It is against the law for a GP or referring doctor to backdate a referral

The doctor issuing the referral may face charges and penalties.

OSHCstudents (source: Bupa)

Leave a comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

*

News related

Things are not covered by OSHC in Australia 24/10/2023 | 590 Views

Things are not covered by OSHC in Australia

OSHCstudents-Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is mandatory for international students in Australia, and it provides coverage for a range of medical services. The specific coverage may vary slightly depending on the insurance provider and policy, but here are some common aspects of what is typically not covered by OSHC.
How to maintain a healthy diet as an international student in Australia? 22/10/2023 | 430 Views

How to maintain a healthy diet as an international student in Australia?

OSHCstudents-Embarking on an international academic journey is an exciting and enriching experience, but it often comes with unique challenges, including maintaining a healthy diet. As an international student in Australia, the unfamiliarity with local food options, budget constraints, and the temptation of fast food can sometimes make it a daunting task to prioritize nutrition. In this guide, we will explore practical tips and insights to help you navigate the Australian culinary landscape, make informed food choices, and ensure that your time as an international student is not only academically rewarding but also a journey towards a healthier you.
Baek Ah Yeon

I trust Allianz Care since it is one of the largest insurance companies in Australia, with the medical centres where I only have to pay for what is left from insurance support. (no need to claim later). Besides, those centres are located at the centre of the city, close to schools. Very convenient, right? Credits to Allianz Care for providing reliable medical centres for health check and treatments.

Baek Ah Yeon | University of Queensland

Ariella Pei

I’ve been living with homestay family for 2 years. I’m now 19, I can move out but I don’t want to leave my host, who has become my family. It feels like I’ve met my second family. Thanks OSHCstudents for sending me to this homestay!

Ariella Pei | University of Canberra

Chatchawat Paton

I realised how important insurance was when I started living in Australia. There I switched to using Allianz Care instead of the previous service. Allianz Care is extraordinarily good in its consulting service and customer care. I’ve learned a lot about Australian health care, also I was consulted with mental issues and how to live a healthy lifestyle. I am very happy now.

Chatchawat Paton | Torrent University

Phuong Anh

Having lived in Australia for 2 years, I’ve been reliant on AHM OSHC to pay for my health care, which supports me for other expenses. Last year, I sent my claim requests for several times and always received the claims within two days. Everything is easy, fast and simple.

Phuong Anh | Victoria University

Xiaoyu Cheng

Thanks to Allianz Care, every time I claimed my medical receipts it processed much more quickly and easily than I expected. I was initially a bit concerned since Allianz Care is more expensive than other insurance companies, but now I can ensure that it is totally worth the money.

Xiaoyu Cheng | Monash University

Emma

My homestay was very comfortable and convenient. My host was really kind. He showed me where to shop, which buses to catch, where the nearest train station is, to get off at which station so that I wouldn’t be taken to another suburb. Travelling was easy since the place was close to public transports. It only took 30 minutes to get to my college, actually I could go anywhere easily!

Emma | Macquarie University

Jing Zhang

When told that I was going to live with an Italian family, I was pretty nervous and doubted whether or not they could speak English well as the local people? Yet it was no longer a problem when I saw them. They knew the problems of people who first came to Australia and always tried to help me. I learned so many things about both Australian and Italian culture and enjoyed tasty Italian meals every time. Awesome!

Jing Zhang | Griffith University

OSHCstudents Services

Partners

  • PTE Platform
  • Inus
  • Flywire
  • Imagine Education Australia
  • Shorelight
  • Opera City English College

Providers

  • Pearson PTE Academic
  • King Education
  • North Sydney College English
  • NIB
  • HCC
  • Global Experience
  • Bupa
  • Vodafone
  • OVHC Iman
  • Allianz
  • Medibank
  • AHM