What is a referral in healthcare terms?

In healthcare terminology, a referral is defined as a direct transfer of patient care to another physician or provider. This process typically occurs when a primary care physician identifies that a patient requires specialized services or treatment that falls outside their area of expertise. By issuing a referral, the primary care physician facilitates a streamlined approach for the patient to receive the necessary care from a specialist, ensuring continuity and coordination in the patient's treatment journey. This is crucial for effective patient management and can also play a role in insurance coverage, as some plans require a referral to allow patients to see specialists.