Final answer:
Consultation in an ambulatory setting is a process where a primary care physician refers a patient to a specialized medical professional for expert advice. The consultant assesses the patient's health issue and provides recommendations to the original physician, often at a stand-alone practice.
Step-by-step explanation:
"Consultation" in an ambulatory setting refers to the process where a primary care physician or treating provider refers a patient to a specialized medical practitioner for expert advice on the patient's specific health issue. During this consultation, the consultant reviews the patient's medical history, possibly conducts a physical examination, and after assessing the patient's health, provides recommendations back to the referring physician. This kind of referral is typically made to a stand-alone practice that operates independently of the referring provider's practice, and it is an integral part of collaborative healthcare, ensuring that patients receive the most informed and specialized care for their particular needs.