What is included in the definition of a 'referral'?

The definition of a 'referral' is best captured by the idea that it includes any request made by a physician for a covered item or service. This encompasses a wide range of activities, recognizing that referrals can occur for various types of healthcare services, not limited to a single procedure or facility. A referral serves as a means to direct patients to the appropriate level of care, whether it's for diagnostic tests, specialist consultations, or other necessary medical treatments.

This comprehensive understanding is essential in healthcare settings, where seamless patient care often requires coordination among various providers and services. By defining a referral broadly, it enables better tracking and management of patient needs, ensuring they receive the appropriate interventions in a timely manner. Since referrals may involve multiple services or procedures, focusing solely on orders for procedures, exclusive care outside a physician's practice, or patient travel to different facilities does not capture the full scope of what a referral may entail.