Referral and handover
Read the topic background here, then explore the labeled visual and structured learning explanations on this page.
Read explanation on this page ↓ See diagram ↓Referral (medicine) — on-site reading
This reference extract addresses Referral (medicine), a related subject. It does not cover every part of Referral and handover.. The article introduction is reproduced here, so you do not need to leave MedAtlas to read it. It may not match the latest official medical guidance.
In medicine, referral is the transfer of care for a patient from one clinician or clinic to another by request.
Tertiary care is usually done by referral from primary or secondary medical care personnel.
In the field of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), referral also means the informing of a partner of a patient diagnosed STD of the potential exposure. Patient referral is where patients directly inform their partners of their exposure to infection. An alternative is provider referral, where trained health department personnel locate partners on the basis of
the names, descriptions, and addresses provided by the patient to inform the partner.
How this connects to Clinical Skills and Internship
To study this topic responsibly, identify its normal structure or function, distinguish the main mechanism from its observable consequences, and ask which data can test a competing explanation. The subject foundations below outline these connections without pretending to be a specialist textbook chapter.
Text credit: Wikipedia contributors, “Referral (medicine)”, original article · authors & revision history · CC BY-SA 4.0. Unmodified opening extract, accessed 24 September 2026. This Wikipedia-derived section is provided under CC BY-SA 4.0; the independent MedAtlas notes and design are separate works.
Referral and handover · visual study map
Scalable vector illustration. Labeled conceptual map, not a precise anatomical, histological or diagnostic image.The wording in this learning map is adapted from the attributed Wikipedia background section below (CC BY-SA 4.0).
What the underlying subject studies
Clinical skills turn foundational knowledge into safe communication, examination, documentation and team practice. Informed consent, hygiene, accurate identification and confidentiality are part of every encounter.
How mechanisms and evidence connect
History and examination guide tests and referrals rather than the reverse. Care transitions require clear records, medication reconciliation and a plan for review when appropriate.
How to develop a sound explanation
Practice under supervision using locally approved curricula, simulation and feedback. Reading a diagram or text alone cannot establish procedural competence or clinical authorization.
References and verification (optional)
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NMC official CBME Curriculum 2024 and current regulations index ↗