Men's health in Australia
My GP won't test my testosterone: what to do in Australia
Being told no to a testosterone blood test can be frustrating when you have symptoms. This guide explains why a GP may decline, how to have a clearer conversation, and the options you have in Australia.
Why a GP may say no
Symptoms linked with low testosterone, such as tiredness, low sex drive, low mood or poor sleep, are common and have many possible causes (healthdirect). Australian guidance recommends testing men with symptoms or signs that suggest low testosterone, not testing men routinely (Endocrine Society of Australia). A GP may decide another cause is more likely and look into that first.
How to have a clearer conversation
- Write down your symptoms, how long you have had them and how they affect daily life.
- Mention any relevant history, such as testicular problems, past injury, chemotherapy or long-term medicines.
- Ask what your GP thinks is causing your symptoms and what they would check instead.
- Ask what would make testing appropriate later, and when to come back.
- Bring the summary from our 2-minute symptom check if it helps you explain.
Your options in Australia
- A second opinion. You can book with another GP or practice. Each doctor makes their own clinical decision.
- Telehealth. A registered doctor can assess symptoms by phone or video where appropriate; the blood sample is still collected in person (Medical Board of Australia). See our telehealth guide.
- A specialist referral. For a Medicare rebate when seeing a specialist such as an endocrinologist, you usually need a valid referral.
- Doctor matching. Low T Check can match you with a men's health doctor at a partner clinic. Any testing or treatment is at the doctor's discretion.
If you are tested
A testosterone blood test is usually taken in the morning, and a low result is normally repeated before any diagnosis (healthdirect). Read how a testosterone blood test works in Australia and testosterone blood test costs.
Not sure where you stand?
Take the 2-minute ADAM questionnaire to check whether your symptoms are worth discussing with a doctor and whether you may be eligible for a bulk billed* blood test.
Frequently asked questions
Why would a GP decline to test my testosterone?
Australian guidance recommends testing men who have symptoms or signs that suggest low testosterone, not screening men without them. A GP may feel your symptoms are better explained by another cause, such as poor sleep, low mood, weight, medicines or another illness, and look into that first.
Can I ask my GP to explain their decision?
Yes. You can ask what they think is causing your symptoms, what they would check instead and what would change their view. Writing down your symptoms, how long you have had them and how they affect you can help the conversation.
Can I see another GP for a second opinion?
Yes. You can book with another GP or practice, including by telehealth. Any doctor makes their own clinical decision about whether testing is appropriate.
Do I need a referral to see a specialist?
To claim a Medicare rebate for a specialist such as an endocrinologist, you usually need a valid referral from a GP or another doctor. Ask your GP whether a referral is appropriate for your situation.
Is a test bought online the same as a doctor-ordered test?
Not in how it is used. A doctor-ordered test is requested and interpreted alongside your symptoms and history, and it may be bulk billed if clinically indicated. Any result still needs a doctor to interpret it before decisions are made.
Related guides
Take the 2-minute symptom check
The ADAM symptom check shows whether your symptoms may be worth discussing with a doctor. You can also request a callback to get matched with a men's health doctor at a partner clinic, by telehealth or in person, for an assessment.
Start the symptom checkWant to talk to someone first? Read how getting matched with a doctor works.
*Blood tests may be bulk billed where eligible, subject to doctor assessment and clinical indication.