Gastro: See a Doctor Online Today
Yes, gastroenteritis can usually be assessed by telehealth — and it’s one of the most common reasons Australians need a same-day medical certificate ($19), since nobody wants you at work with gastro anyway. An AHPRA-registered GP at MyGPOnline can assess your symptoms, advise on rehydration and recovery, certify you unfit for work, and prescribe where clinically appropriate ($39 eScript). Consultations are $45, 7 days a week.
What the doctor will ask
How long you’ve had vomiting or diarrhoea, whether you’re keeping fluids down, signs of dehydration (dizziness, reduced urination), fever, blood in stools, recent travel or suspect food, and who else in the household is sick. Most gastro is viral and settles in a few days with rest and fluids — the consultation is about confirming it’s safe to manage at home, keeping you off work while you’re infectious, and catching the cases that aren’t simple gastro.
When to seek in-person or urgent care instead
- Signs of serious dehydration, severe abdominal pain, or blood in vomit/stools — urgent care; call 000 if severe
- Babies and young children who can’t keep fluids down — in-person assessment same day
- Symptoms beyond ~3 days, recent overseas travel, or you’re pregnant, elderly or immunosuppressed — the GP may recommend testing and examination at a Family Doctor clinic near you
Common questions
How many days off will a gastro certificate cover?
The doctor decides clinically — typically 1–2 days, in line with staying home while symptomatic. Food handlers and healthcare workers often need to stay off longer after symptoms resolve; tell the doctor what you do for work.
Can the doctor prescribe something to stop the vomiting?
Where clinically appropriate, yes — the GP will weigh it against your situation. Rehydration remains the mainstay for most cases.
My child has gastro — can I get time off to care for them?
Yes — book with your child present and ask about a carer’s leave certificate.
MyGPOnline is part of Family Doctor, Australia’s largest 100% GP-owned medical group. Not for emergencies — call 000. Reviewed by the Family Doctor clinical team. Last updated 18 July 2026.
