REFERRAL SYSTEM

INTRODUCTION
• At each level of health care infrastructure, there is need for
support from higher level of infrastructure and also from
secondary & tertiary level hospitals to strengthen and promote
credibility of primary health care system.
 DEFINITION

• Referral system is a two way exchange of information and

returning patient to those who referred them for follow-up
care.
 LEVELS OF REFERRAL SYSTEM

In our health system, referral services are provided at three

levels..

i. Primary Level
ii. Secondary Level
iii. Tertiary Level
 STEPS IN REFERRAL

 Selection of patient and establish the need for referral

 Set objectives for referral
 Inform the patient/ relatives
 Identify the resources available
 Provide alternative available resources
 Take consent from patient/ relatives
 Provide necessary pre-referral treatment/care
 Prepare referral form
 Facilitate transportation
 Follow-up
 REFERRAL SERVICES AVAILABLE
• 3 tier system considering 3 level of prevention
• Each level planned to cater specific type of health needs of
the client
• WHO identified provision of referral system as major
supportive activities of primary health care
• Referral system established in such a way to refer case from
primary level to secondary level or tertiary level based on the
clients needs
• Primary health center is the 1st medical reference point in
health system chain
• Each system performs its function for which it is established
 RESPONSIBILITY OF THE NURSE IN
REFERRAL SYSTEM

1. Updated knowledge of Referral System.

2. Careful selection of patients
3. Awareness of limitations and responsibilities
4. In emergency, save the life of patient, then sent for referral.
5. All entries - clear and correct &
6. Enclose necessary records
7. Arrange life saving equipment, medicines etc
8. Accompany if necessary.