In order to receive a rebate from Medicare, a referral from your doctor or Optometrist is required prior to your appointment.
A referral from your GP or Optometrist is valid for a 12 month period for the condition in which you were referred. A referral from a medical specialist is valid for a 3 month period.
Once your referral has expired, you will require a new referral in order to claim the rebate from Medicare.