Changes to outpatient referrals

In an effort to improve patient flow, reduce waiting lists and improve patient access, Mater has undertaken an extensive review of our ambulatory services.

As a result, Mater Specialist clinic has made two significant changes to the referral management process.

Standard referral form

Part of this review includes the introduction of a standardised referral form for our specialist outpatient clinics. Using the form will ensure we receive all the information we require in a referral, and that we won't have to contact referring doctors for clarity around their referral.

For a referral to be considered complete, Medicare requires eight pieces of information:

• the patient's name, address, date of birth and a contact number
• a Medicare number
• the presenting condition
• the referring doctor's provider number and address
• the referring doctor's signature
• the date of referral
• the referral must be legible
• the speciality and lead clinician (by name) to which the patient is being referred.

Referrals missing any of these elements cannot be accepted, and will be returned to the referring doctor for completion.

Referral Rejections

Mater Specialist clinic will not accept referrals if Mater cannot provide an appointment within 12 months. We are doing this for two reasons:

• We believe we need tell patients what the situation is so they can make informed decisions about their health care.
• We are committed to improving access to outpatients departments across the campus.