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.

Author

Ellie is WriteUpp’s in-house Content Creator. Her research and writing for private practitioners focuses on marketing, business growth, data security, and more. She also hosts WriteUpp’s podcast The Healthy Practice; the show that guides practitioners in the early stages of their careers through every aspect of practice management. Outside of work Ellie writes a mental health blog, studies mindfulness and is a keen nature photographer.