Do I need a referral?
Yes. A general practitioner’s referral is required to book an appointment with our doctors. We ask that all referrals are submitted to ACT Dermatology, via fax or email. All referrals are triaged by the requested doctor and an appointment will then be offered in order of urgency. Please note that this process can take between 4-6 weeks. Please note that at present, due to overwhelming demand, we are unable to accept all referrals received.
Our can only accept referrals for patients who present with a clinically urgent condition. It is therefore important that your referral contains as much information as possible to enable accurate triage, in some circumstances, photographs of the referred condition can greatly assist the triage process.
Please note: As we receive very large volumes of new referrals, triaging of new referrals can be delayed. If we are unable to offer you an appointment, a letter will be sent to your GP advising them of the need to refer you elsewhere.
How long do I have to wait for an appointment?
Wait times vary depending on your skin condition, however the waiting period for an appointment can be extensive.
Do you accept indefinite referrals?
As a general rule, no. A referral from a General Practitioner is valid for 12 months. We therefore ask for an updated referral from your General Practitioner every 12 months. This is to ensure we have up to date and accurate information about your medical conditions and medications to ensure your safety. Referrals from Specialists are only valid for 3 months.
How are appointments confirmed? Can I change my appointment?
We notify new patients of the next available appointment dates by email / letter. If the time provided is not suitable for you, we ask that you contact our staff who will do their best to assist with an alternate appointment date.
Are the appointments always on time?
Whilst Doctors do their best to keep to time, the nature of medicine means that we simply do not know what will come through the door on any given day. Patients often require more time and attention, including unexpected procedures, this does mean that the rest of our session will run late. We ask for your patience in these situations, knowing that you too will receive extra time and care when required.
We recommend that you take this into consideration when accepting your appointment time.
Can I have my consultation via Telehealth (Online/Phone)?
Our Dermatologists offer telehealth services for selected patients only. The Dermatologist will determine whether your condition is amendable to this form of consultation and if so you will be offered the option to do so. Please note that telehealth consultations are treated the same as an in person consultation and fees apply.
Where can I park?
There is an onsite paid car park as well as timed paid street parking. Our premises are wheelchair accessible.
I'm having trouble getting through on the phone. What should I do?
Our phones are answered between 9:30am - 12:30pm and 1:30pm - 4:00pm Monday through Thursday. Unfortunately, we often experience high call volumes and apologise if you are unable to get through during these times. Please contact us via email at: reception@actdermatology.com.au and we will endeavour to get back to you as soon as possible.