Hi Sub,

For the last 2 days, I developed a noticable blind spot in one of my eyes, and have a constant headache. I visited a GP who referred me for an eye test and an MRI for my head.

The eye test was covered by medicare, but I am being asked to pay $490 for the head MRI. Apparently I can't get it covered if it's a GP referral for non-chronic headache.

My other option is to go to a specialist, but my GP is telling me that a referral to a specialist will just cost me as much. My partner's employer covers me for basic private insurance, but doesn't cover specialist visits.

I imagine my best option now is to go to the hospital? If I go to the hospital, do I need to get admitted or can I just visit a doctor? I am sorry but I am an immigrant, and all this is very confusing for me. I am happy to pay out of pocket, but I would certainly want to minimize how much I have to pay out of pocket.

Thanks in advance :)