On this page
This page provides answers to common questions about appointments, referrals, assessments, telehealth, and practical arrangements for families.
Do I need a referral?
Yes. A valid GP referral addressed to Dr Janaka Tennakoon is required for all appointments.
A new referral is required if:
- More than 12 months have passed since the initial referral
- You change your GP
Who does Dr Tennakoon see?
Dr Tennakoon consults children from birth to 16 years of age.
How does telehealth work?
All consultations are conducted via secure video telehealth.
You will need:
- A video-call–enabled smartphone, tablet, or PC/Mac
- A reliable internet connection
- A quiet, private space
Your child must be present for the appointment.
At this time, we do not offer telephone-only consultations.
How do I book an appointment?
You can book an appointment once a referral has been arranged. Your GP can email the referral to info@onlinepaediatricclinic.au.
We have three appointment types. Visit our appointments page to learn more.
How do I prepare for a telehealth appointment?
Please ensure your device is charged, your internet connection is stable, and you are in a quiet environment.
ADHD assessments
ADHD diagnosis can be confirmed from the age of 6 years.
Dr Tennakoon prefers a completed Vanderbilt Questionnaire for children aged 5 years and above.
If your child has had previous assessments (such as Speech Pathology, Occupational Therapy, or Psychology), please email reports to info@onlinepaediatricclinic.au prior to your appointment.
How many appointments are required for diagnosis?
This varies depending on information already available. In most cases, diagnosis may take 2 to 3 appointments.
What if my child requires medication?
If medication is commenced:
- A review appointment is required after 3 months
- Ongoing monitoring is required every 6 months
Repeat prescriptions require an appointment and a valid referral (renewed every 12 months).
We recommend contacting us via info@onlinepaediatricclinic.au when filling your last repeat script so an appointment can be scheduled in time.
Schedule 8 medications
Please note that Schedule 8 prescriptions may expire 6 months from the date of issue.
If you are unsure of expiry dates, please check with your pharmacy.
If a repeat script appointment is required, please allow at least 2 weeks’ notice. A valid referral must be in place.
Autism assessments
An autism diagnosis may be confirmed using reports completed by Speech Pathology, Occupational Therapy, and Psychology professionals.
NDIS and Centrelink forms
Completion of NDIS or Centrelink forms requires an appointment.
This service is not Medicare rebateable and a private fee will apply.
Please note that NDIS forms can often be completed by your child’s other treating professionals. You may wish to discuss this with your NDIS provider before booking.
What is the cost of appointments?
We offer three clinic options
- Private Face to Face fee-paying clinic – shorter wait times (fees payable via HotDoc) Not transferable to Bulk Billing if you elect this clinic
- Private Telehealth Fee Paying Clinic – shorter wait times (fees payable via HotDoc) Not transferable to Bulk Billing if you elect this clinic
- Bulk billing clinic – longer wait times.
A valid Medicare card is required. GP Referral is mandatory as is Medicare requirement for Initial and subsequent consultation.
Urgent concerns
For urgent or emergency medical concerns, please attend your nearest emergency department or call 000.