What it is
When your symptoms need assessment or treatment by a specialist, you need a referral. The doctor assesses your symptoms and writes a referral with what the specialist needs to know.

The doctor assesses your need and refers you to the right specialist.
You get a referral to the right place, or a different plan if the doctor thinks that suits you better.
What the treatment is and how it's performed
When your symptoms need assessment or treatment by a specialist, you need a referral. The doctor assesses your symptoms and writes a referral with what the specialist needs to know.
The doctor may need an examination, tests or a new appointment before the referral is sent. After that, the specialist decides when you get an appointment and what happens next.
Who it's for and safety information