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== Referral ==
'''Referral''' (pronounced: rɪˈfɜːrəl) is a term used in the medical field to describe the process where a healthcare provider sends a patient to another healthcare provider for further treatment or consultation. The term originates from the Latin word "referre", which means "to bring back".

=== Definition ===
A '''[[Referral]]''' is a written request from one health professional to another health professional or health facility, usually a specialist, asking them to diagnose, review, or treat a patient for a specific condition. 

=== Types of Referrals ===
There are several types of referrals in the healthcare system, including:

* '''[[Self-referral]]''': This is when a patient decides to see a specialist without a recommendation from a primary care provider.
* '''[[Provider referral]]''': This is when a primary care provider sends a patient to a specialist for further treatment.
* '''[[Tertiary referral]]''': This is when a specialist sends a patient to another specialist for further treatment or consultation.

=== Process ===
The '''[[referral process]]''' typically involves the following steps:

# The primary care provider identifies a potential health issue that requires specialist attention.
# The primary care provider writes a referral letter detailing the patient's condition and treatment history.
# The patient is then sent to the specialist with the referral letter.
# The specialist reviews the referral letter, conducts further tests if necessary, and then decides on the best course of treatment.

=== Related Terms ===
* '''[[Referring physician]]''': The healthcare provider who initiates the referral.
* '''[[Referred patient]]''': The individual who is sent to a specialist for further treatment or consultation.
* '''[[Referral letter]]''': The document written by the referring physician detailing the patient's condition and treatment history.

[[Category:Medical terminology]]
[[Category:Healthcare processes]]

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