Do you HAVE to get a refferal to goto any specialist (orthapedic), or is that just certain Doctor's Policy?

Answer 1

The doctor doesn't care as long as you have a payment source. It's the insurance companies that often require your family doctor to make the referral. They are trying to contain costs since specialists cost more to see. They are hoping yor primary physician can deal with your problem. But they trust him more than they trust you that you need a specialist.

Answer 2

It is the policy of whatever insurance company you're using.

For instance, for Aetna HMO you don't need to get a referral to go to a specialist on their list. You can just go.

If you don't have an HMO or any kind of insurance, you would go by the doctor's policy.

Answer 3

Some specialist will only see patients that have been referred; furthermore, some insurance companies require referrals, or they will not pay.

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