Your first visit
What happens, from referral to first appointment.
Seeing a psychiatrist for the first time can feel like a big step. Here's how referrals work, what it costs, what to bring and what the appointment is like.
How referrals work
You need a referral from your GP or paediatrician to see a psychiatrist in Australia. It also lets you claim a Medicare rebate.
- i.See your GPAsk for a referral to Dr Stanganelli. Take these contact details with you.
- ii.Send the referralEmail it to appointments@stanganelli.com.au, or your GP can e-fax it. You can also post it to PO Box 5571, Mackay QLD 4740.
- iii.We review your referralDr Stanganelli reviews every referral. If yours is accepted, we'll offer a time in Mackay, Brisbane or by telehealth, usually in under 4 weeks. If we can't accept a referral, we'll let the referring doctor or the patient know.
- iv.First consultationA longer assessment visit. Bring any previous reports or letters.
- Email referrals to
- appointments@stanganelli.com.au
- GP e-fax
- +61 7 4829 4142
- Address it to
- Dr Veronica Stanganelli, psychiatrist
Fees & Medicare
Clear about costs before you come.
- Consultation fees
- We do not bulk bill. Please note that this is a private billing practice. Medicare rebates may apply to eligible consultations; however, out-of-pocket fees are payable, including for MBS item 291 assessments. Fees depend on the length and type of appointment. We confirm the fee when we offer you a time, so there are no surprises.
- Medicare rebate
- With a valid referral, Medicare may pay part of the fee for eligible consultations. The rebate is usually processed on the day, and you pay the gap.
- Private health insurance
- Private health funds don't cover consultations outside hospital. Medicare is the only rebate for these visits.
- Changing an appointment
- Please let us know as early as you can. A cancellation fee may apply for late notice or missed appointments.
What to bring
A short checklist for the day.
The first appointment is longer than follow-up visits, usually around an hour. For children, please allow time for both parents and child.
- i.Your referral letter, if your GP hasn't sent it
- ii.Medicare card
- iii.A list of current medications and doses
- iv.Previous psychiatric or psychology reports
- v.School reports or letters, for children
- vi.Any questions you want to ask
Telehealth
Video consultations anywhere in Australia.
Telehealth suits patients in rural and regional areas, and follow-up visits when travel is hard. Many people combine telehealth with appointments in Mackay or Brisbane.
We'll email you a secure link before the appointment. You'll need a quiet, private space, a device with a camera, and a reliable internet connection. Medicare rebates apply to eligible telehealth consultations.
Some first assessments are better in person, particularly for young children. We'll talk this through when you book.
FAQs
Common questions
Do I need a referral?
Yes. A referral from your GP or paediatrician is needed to see a psychiatrist and to claim a Medicare rebate.
Will every referral be accepted?
No. All referrals are reviewed and assessed by Dr Stanganelli to determine suitability for the practice. Submission of a referral does not guarantee acceptance or an appointment. If we can't accept a referral, we'll let the referring doctor or the patient know.
How long is the wait?
Dr Stanganelli reviews every referral first. If your referral is accepted, first appointments are usually available in under 4 weeks, and we will contact you with the next available time.
What ages do you see?
All ages: parents and babies, children, teenagers and adults.
How long is a referral valid?
A GP referral to a specialist is usually valid for 12 months. Your GP can also write an ongoing referral.
Does Dr Stanganelli provide therapy?
No. Dr Stanganelli is a psychiatrist. She assesses, makes a diagnosis, prescribes medication where it helps, and coordinates your care with your GP, psychologist and, for children, school. If you'd benefit from therapy and don't have a psychologist, she can refer you to one.
Can I bring a family member?
Yes. For children and teenagers, parents are part of the first appointment. Adults are welcome to bring a partner or support person.
Can I have appointments by telehealth?
Yes, particularly if you live in rural or regional Queensland. Many patients combine telehealth with visits in person.
Can I have my appointment in Spanish?
Yes. Dr Stanganelli consults in English and Spanish.