Final answer:
A referral is a process in healthcare where a healthcare provider directs a patient to another healthcare provider or specialist for further evaluation or treatment. Referrals ensure that patients receive the appropriate care from the most qualified professionals and help coordinate care between different healthcare providers.
Step-by-step explanation:
A referral is a process in healthcare where a healthcare provider directs a patient to another healthcare provider or specialist for further evaluation or treatment. This is often done when the patient requires specialized care that is beyond the scope of the referring provider. For example, if a patient is experiencing chest pain, their primary care physician may refer them to a cardiologist for further assessment and management.
Referrals are an important part of healthcare as they ensure that patients receive the appropriate care from the most qualified professionals. They can also help coordinate care between different healthcare providers and ensure continuity of treatment. In some cases, referrals may be required by insurance companies before certain services or treatments can be covered.