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Dr Harveen Singh

Paediatric Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist, Sydney

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Do I Need a Referral to See a Paediatric Gastroenterologist?

Published 10 November 2025
4 min read
HS

Dr Harveen Singh FRACP

Paediatric Gastroenterologist & Hepatologist | Reviewed 10 November 2025

To see Dr Harveen Singh FRACP, you will need a referral. This is both a Medicare requirement and a practical necessity — it ensures Dr Singh receives your child's relevant medical history before the appointment, which leads to a more focused and effective consultation.

Who Can Provide a Referral?

The following health professionals can provide a referral:

  • General practitioners (GPs)
  • Paediatricians
  • Other specialist medical practitioners
  • You do not need to see a paediatrician first — if your GP believes your child's problem warrants a direct gastroenterology referral, they can refer directly.

    What Should the Referral Include?

    A good referral letter helps Dr Singh prepare for your appointment. Ask your GP to include:

  • A summary of your child's presenting symptoms
  • Relevant medical history (including diagnoses, medications, allergies)
  • Results of any relevant blood tests, imaging, or previous specialist letters
  • The reason for referral
  • You can also bring copies of any relevant results to your appointment.

    How Long Does a Referral Last?

    Under Medicare, a referral from a GP is valid for 12 months. A referral from a specialist (e.g., a paediatrician) is valid for 3 months, but can be extended if ongoing care is required.

    Urgent Referrals

    If your child has any of the following, ask your GP to mark the referral as urgent:

  • Blood in stool or vomit
  • Significant unexplained weight loss
  • Jaundice (yellow skin or eyes)
  • Persistent vomiting with signs of dehydration
  • Severe abdominal pain
  • Food impaction (food completely stuck in throat)
  • For life-threatening emergencies, always call 000 or go directly to your nearest emergency department.

    What Happens After the Referral?

    Once you have your referral:

  • Contact our rooms on 02 9793 2170 to book an appointment at your preferred clinic (Bankstown, Westmead, St Leonards, or Campbelltown)
  • You will be given an appointment date and time, along with any pre-appointment instructions
  • Bring your referral, Medicare card, and any relevant test results to your appointment
  • For more information, visit our Patient Information page.

    Last reviewed by Dr Harveen Singh FRACP, Paediatric Gastroenterologist & Hepatologist

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    Concerned About Your Child?

    Dr Harveen Singh FRACP sees children across Sydney at Bankstown, Westmead, St Leonards, and Campbelltown. A referral from your GP or paediatrician is required.