You don't need a GP referral to see a dietitian, but Medicare can cover some of the cost if you have a chronic condition (the GP will determine your eligibility).

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Medicare can help reduce the cost of dietitian appointments when your GP has created an eligible care plan. These plans are designed to support people living with chronic health conditions or eating disorders by giving access to subsidised allied health care.

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GP Chronic Condition Management Plan (GPCCMP / Care Plan)

If you have a long‑term health condition—such as diabetes, PCOS, IBS, heart disease, or mental health conditions—your GP may create a Chronic Disease Management Plan. This plan provides up to 5 Medicare‑rebated allied health visits per calendar year, which can include dietitian sessions.

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Eating Disorder Treatment and Management Plan (EDP)

For people experiencing eating disorders, a GP or psychiatrist may create an Eating Disorder Plan. This plan provides up to 20 Medicare‑rebated dietitian sessions per year, alongside psychology support.

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What You Pay

At Guardian Dietitian, Medicare covers part of the appointment fee, which is claimed by your dietitian, and all you pay is a gap fee.  Other clinics may require payment of the Medicare fee which you then receive as a rebate.   ​Some dietitians may bulk bill, meaning there is no gap fee and the only payment they receive is the Medicare fee. These sessions are usually kept short for this reason.

 

At Guardian, we charge a gap fee so that sessions can run for 45 minutes, to allow enough time for a thorough assessment and planning process with our patients. 

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Do I Need a Referral?

You can see a dietitian without a referral, but you’ll only receive Medicare rebates if you have a valid Care Plan or Eating Disorder Plan in place.  If you have private health insurance, dietetics may be included in your extras cover.

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How to Get Started

1. Book an appointment with your GP to discuss whether you’re eligible for a CDM or EDP plan.

2. Ask your GP to include dietitian sessions in your plan.

3. Bring your plan (or have your GP send it directly) when booking your appointment.

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If you have any questions please contact us.