Requests for diagnostic imaging services versus referrals for other services under Medicare

This page provides information about the difference between requests for diagnostic imaging services and referrals for other services under Medicare

Page last updated: 24 October 2022

The terms 'request' and 'referral' are often used interchangeably within the diagnostic imaging sector and by requesters and the general public when discussing the forms patients need to take to a provider of diagnostic imaging services. This document provides detailed explanation of the difference between a request versus a referral, based on the legislative requirements, as well as the conditions where consultations may be billed by diagnostic imaging providers.

PDF Version Factsheet for requests for Diagnostic imaging services versus referrals (PDF 183 KB)
Word Version Factsheet for requests for diagnostic imaging services versus referrals (Word 125 KB)

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