Common questions our doctors are asked
Under what circumstances should my child see a paediatrician
instead of our GP?
If you have an existing relationship with a paediatrician
(for example, from your child's birth), you may prefer to see your paediatrician.
Some GPs may not feel comfortable treating more complex conditions, but you
should discuss this with your GP.
We are seeing a paediatrician at the hospital, but there is
a long wait until our first appointment. What should I do in the meantime if I
am worried about my child?
Go back to your GP if you are worried about your child. Tell
the GP which paediatrician you are seeing and when the appointment is. Your GP
may contact the hospital paediatricians to ask for advice while you are waiting
for the appointment.
Does private health insurance cover the cost of seeing a
paediatrician?
If you see a private paediatrician there will be
a fee, but private health insurance doesn't normally cover private specialist
appointments. Check with your insurer. For Medicare card holders, there is no
cost if you see a paediatrician as a hospital outpatient or community health
centre. Private health insurance usually covers a hospital stay in a private
facility, when your child is looked after by a private paediatrician.