Within insurance companies, there are different plans with different referral policies. Some need referrals for every consultation with a specialist, others need referrals for only certain conditions. Some procedures need phone authorizations and authorization numbers. Receptionist takes message. Message placed in appropriate physician message slot in front office.
Nurse picks up message.
Nurse pulls patient chart. Nurse decides whether referral is urgent or non-urgent. Chart along with message from patient placed in appropriate location for physician. Physician reviews chart notes, decides whether referral is appropriate. If there are questions, physician or nurse calls patient to clarify the issue.