Specialist Immunology and Allergy physicians undergo similar training as other medical specialists.  They receive general training in medicine, followed by postgraduate training in immunology and allergy.  They will normally have a medical degree, Fellowship of the Royal Australasian College of Physicians (FRACP) and membership of the Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy (ASCIA).  If they have also trained in Immunopathology they will have an additional Fellowship, of the Royal College of Pathologists of Australasia (FRCPA). 

Specialist Immunology and Allergy physicians work in a range of settings, including hospitals, private practice, diagnostic immunology laboratories, research centres and universities. 

As with other medical specialists, a referral from a general practitioner is required for consultation with a Specialist Immunology and Allergy physician.

When should patients be referred to a Specialist Immunology and Allergy physician?

• For further education and ongoing management of immune system disorders.
• In cases of severe, life threatening allergy (anaphylaxis).
• When food or occupational allergy is suspected.
• If immunotherapy for treatment of allergic diseases is contemplated.
• In asthma, when there is evidence of continuing poor control, despite regular use of asthma medication.
• For investigation of unexplained inflammation (fevers of unknown origin, unexplained fevers, weight loss).
• Investigation of recurrent or unusual (opportunistic) infections.

Content last updated March 2013