Written by GUIDELINES FOR INTER-DEPARTMENTAL REFERRALS
(WITHIN HOSPITAL) 2024
Inter Departmental referral process is a crucial component of high quality comprehensive patient care in any Medical Institution. However there are inconsistencies and lack of accountability in the referral process. To address the various issues prevailing in the inter departmental referral process, Director General of Health Services, Ministry of Health & Family Welfare has issued Guidelines for Inter-Departmental Referral within a hospital.
These guidelines provide a framework to various hospitals to improve patient care services, facilitate better communication and cooperation between departments, enhance working relationships and help develop accountability in a hospital.
Hospitals should develop their internal Standard Operating Procedures using the guidelines issued by the Directorate.
DO’S AND DON’TS FOR INTER-DEPARTMENTAL REFERRALS AT HOSPITALS
DO’s
a. To Initiate referrals promptly
b. To document referrals accurately
c. Effective Communication
d. Acknowledge and update referrals
e. Collaborate for Continuity of Care
f. Follow up on referrals
g. Respect patient confidentiality
h. Seek feedback for improvement
i. Adhere to hospital policies and best practices
j. Prioritise patient centered care
DONT’s
a.Don’t delay referrals unnecessarily
b.Don’t omit essential clinical information or documentation
c.Don’t assume that all referrals are routine or non-urgent;
d.Don’t overlook communication
e.Don’t rely solely on verbal communication
f. Don’t hesitate to escalate urgent referrals
g.Don’t breach patient confidentiality
h.Don’t ignore feedback
i. Don’t overlook importance of ongoing education and training
j. Don’t lose sight of patient’s overall well-being
Source: Ministry of Health & Family Welfare Directorate Guideline document