Disclaimer: This information is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
Visiting Australia and need to see a doctor or get a prescription? Doctors on Demand makes it easy for tourists, international visitors and temporary residents to access Australian-registered doctors and get the healthcare they need – no Medicare card or health insurance required.
Who can use Doctors on Demand?
Our online doctor service is available to:
- International tourists visiting Australia
- Holidaymakers, families and backpackers
- Business travelers
- Students and temporary visa holders
- Visitors without a Medicare cards
As long as you have an Australian mobile phone number and are physically in Australia at the time of your video consult with a doctor, you can use our service.
How it works for tourists and visitors
Step One: Book an online doctor appointment
Book a video consultation through Doctors on Demand at a time that suits you. Appointments are conducted via secure video or phone with an AHPRA-registered doctor based in Australia.
You do not need:
- Medicare
- Private health insurance
- A referral (for GP consults)
Upfront private fees apply and are shown before you book, please refer to our pricing page for more information.
Step Two: Speak with a doctor in Australia
During your consultation, the doctor will:
- Discuss your symptoms or health concern
- Review your medical history and current medications
- Provide medical advice, treatment options, or documentation if appropriate
If clinically appropriate, the doctor may issue you with an eScript (electronic prescription). Note – an IHI is required to get an eScript, which you can get from Services Australia here.
Step Three: Receive your prescription via eScript
If prescribed, you’ll receive an eScript token by:
- SMS and/or
This token can be used at any participating pharmacy in Australia.
You simply:
- Show the QR code or token on your phone to the pharmacist
- Pay for your medication directly at the pharmacy
Step Four: Get your medication anywhere in Australia
Australian pharmacies widely accept eScripts, making it easy to fill prescriptions whether you’re in:
- Sydney
- Melbourne
- Brisbane
- Gold Coast
- Perth
- Tasmania
- Regional or rural areas
You can choose a pharmacy close to your accommodation or travel route.
What is an IHI?
An IHI (Individual Healthcare Identifier) is a number that identifies you for health care purposes in Australia. If you have a Medicare card, are registered for Medicare, or have a DVA card, you will already have an IHI.
If you’re a visitor to Australia and you don’t have an IHI, you can apply for one with Services Australia here.
Benefits of an IHI
Having an IHI improves the security and efficiency of managing personal health information, allows for better communication between healthcare providers, and enables access to eScripts.
Do tourists need Australian health insurance?
No, you can use Doctors on Demand as a private patient. However, some medications and services may be cheaper with suitable travel or overseas health insurance.
Common conditions we help with
Tourists in Australia commonly use Doctors on Demand for:
- Cold, flu, and respiratory symptoms
- Infections (where appropriate)
- Lost or forgotten regular medications
- Skin conditions and rashes
- Gastrointestinal issues
- Medical certificates
- Prescription renewals (subject to assessment and prescribing doctor’s clinical judgment)
Important things to know
- You must be located in Australia to receive a consultation or prescription
- Prescriptions are issued only when clinically appropriate
- Australian regulations apply to all medications, including controlled medicines
- Some medications available overseas may not be prescribed in Australia
Why tourists choose Doctors on Demand
- No Medicare required
- Fast and convenient access to doctors across Australia from wherever you are
- eScripts accepted nationwide
- No need to visit a clinic
- Multi-lingual doctors available, speaking 20+ languages
- Secure telehealth appointments available 24 hours a day, every day of the year including public holidays
Need medical care while visiting Australia?
Doctors on Demand helps international visitors get medical advice, prescriptions and peace of mind – so you can focus on enjoying your time in Australia. Book an appointment online to speak with a doctor today.