Patients can be placed on a specialist clinic wait list when a referring GP provides information showing the referral meets the new criteria. The statewide referral criteria applies to public hospitals and health services only.

The criteria identify the information that should be included to assess and direct the patient to the best service available.

GPs and other primary care providers should check their local HealthPathways, Gippsland Pathways or SEMPHN clinical and referral pathways when considering a referral. If the referral is not accepted, GPs can find up-to-date clinical advice on how to effectively manage these conditions within the community.

GPs and other primary care providers are encouraged to view the criteria here.