Frequently Asked Questions

What is a medical referral?

A medical referral is a written request by a doctor to another healthcare professional, such as a specialist, asking them to provide an expert opinion, diagnosis or treatment plan for a particular medical condition. A referral includes information about the patient such as contact details, significant past medical history, allergies or adverse reactions, and current medications. This information enables the specialist to make an informed decision about whether they have the skills needed to treat the patient. DOCTO prefers patients have a referral from their regular GP so our specialists can provide a follow-up report back to the GP. If patients do not have a referral, they can see the duty doctor HERE to organise one.