What is Medical referral?

A medical referral is a formal process in which a healthcare provider directs a patient to another healthcare professional or specialist for further evaluation, diagnosis, or treatment of a specific medical condition. It typically involves transferring medical information and coordinating care between the referring provider and the receiving provider to ensure continuity and appropriate management of the patient's healthcare needs.

The foundation of this process is the medical referral letter. Knowing how to write a successful GP referral letter is paramount as it communicates the crucial clinical information that helps the receiving provider understand and address the patient's condition effectively.