Frequently Asked Questions

What is a dermatologist?

A dermatologist is a medically trained doctor who has undertaken six or more years of study and training to obtain a degree in medicine as well as a number of additional years of generalised medical and surgical training. After being selected by the Australasian College of Dermatologists to undertake training in the national dermatology training program, dermatologists undertake an additional 4 years or more of specialist training in the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of diseases of the skin and skin cancer. Dermatologists are also extensively trained in the use of lasers for treating the skin and many cosmetic procedures. With their specialist knowledge of the skin they are well placed to advise on and perform these procedures.

All dermatologists practicing in Australia must be accredited with The Australasian College of Dermatologists, which is the only government accredited provider of specialist dermatology training in this country. At Bulimba Dermatology, all doctors providing services to our patients are dermatologists accredited with the College.

Do I need a referral to see a dermatologist?

No, it is not necessary to have a referral from another doctor to see a dermatologist at Bulimba Dermatology. However, having a current referral will enable you to receive substantial rebates from Medicare towards the costs of your consultation and many related procedures. Referrals from general practitioners are generally valid for 12 months specific to the condition you have been referred for. Referrals from other specialists are generally valid for 3 months.

What if I do not have a current Medicare card?

Only holders of a current Australian Medicare Card are eligible to receive a rebate of medical expenses under the Australian Medicare system when they are treated privately by a dermatologist. However, even if you do not have a Medicare card, you can still see one of the dermatologists at Bulimba Dermatology for a consultation.

What if I live overseas or interstate?

Dermatologists at Bulimba Dermatology regularly see patients from interstate and overseas, for both urgent and routine skin concerns. Standard consultation fees apply. If you are in Brisbane for a short time, we will try our best to accommodate an appointment for you to coincide with your stay.

Will private health funds cover the costs of seeing a dermatologist?

Generally, the costs of seeing a dermatologist are not covered by your private health fund. However, Medicare covers some of the costs of your consultation. Additionally, many treatments and procedures such as treatment of skin cancers, sweat treatments, ultraviolet light treatment and many laser treatments are subsidised by Medicare. Discuss your rebate entitlements with one of our staff.

How long will my appointment take?

Generally an initial consultation, including a detailed discussion with the dermatologist and examination of your skin, will take approximately 20 minutes. If you have multiple problems that you wish to discuss, there may be an additional cost if the consultation time is extended significantly.

Follow-up or review appointments generally take approximately 10 minutes.

On some occasions, small procedures such as skin biopsies may be performed at the time of the consultation.

What should I expect at my appointment?

The dermatologist will have a discussion with you to try to understand your concerns. A history will be taken of your problem and, in most cases, an examination of the skin will be performed. In certain circumstances it may be necessary to take samples of your hair, skin or nails to assist in managing your problem. Your dermatologist will discuss this at the time of your appointment.

For a full skin check, you will generally be asked to undress to your underwear. It is not standard practice to examine under the under garments. However, if you have any concerns regarding the skin in these areas, your dermatologist will examine them at your request. It is recommended that no make-up be worn to your appointment if you are having a skin check.

Photographs may be taken of your skin during the consultation. This is important in identifying the location of spots and skin cancers for future treatment, and is also valuable in monitoring the progress of your condition over time.

Your referring doctor will be provided with a summary of the consultation and any investigation results will also be provided to the referring doctor.