What do Category 1, 2 and 3 referrals mean?

Urgency categories tell a specialist how soon you should be seen. Here's what each one means.

When your GP refers you to a specialist, they may mark how urgent the referral is. Public hospital outpatient clinics in Australia use three categories:

• Category 1: should be seen within 30 days. The condition could get worse quickly and may need emergency care.
• Category 2: should be seen within 90 days. The condition causes some pain or difficulty but isn't likely to get worse quickly.
• Category 3: should be seen within 365 days. The condition is unlikely to get worse quickly or need emergency care.

Private specialists don't have to use these categories, but many do, and they help the rooms decide who to fit in first. On Spec Book, GPs choose a category when they book and some specialists hold appointments only for Category 1 referrals.

Categories aren't for emergencies. If you have severe symptoms, call 000 or go to the nearest emergency department.

General information only, not medical advice. Everyone's situation is different, so check with your GP or the provider. In an emergency call 000.