Referrals

If your provider recommends a referral to a specialist or another type of care, one of our Referral Specialists will contact you within 7 business days to let you know what the next steps are given your particular insurance carrier.

In some cases, our representative will let you know that you do not need a formal referral and will provide some suggested providers.

Occasionally, your insurance provider may require a formal referral process, which can take up to 14 business days to complete and have authorized by the insurance carrier.

You may call us at any time and speak with our Referral Specialists for more information.

Got a referral?

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a referral?

It is an order placed by your primary care provider to redirect you to a specialist for a consultation about your specific need.

Who orders a referral?

Your primary care provider here at Desert Senita Community Health Center

How long will it take to get more information about my referral?

On average, it takes about 7 business days for our staff to complete a referral. If a referral requires an urgent consultation sooner than the 7 business days, please notify your provider to order your referral as urgent so it is completed sooner.

Do I get to choose what outside facility/provider/location I would prefer?

Yes. If there is a facility/ provider/ location you already have in mind, please provide that information to your provider at the time of visit or contact the referrals department with that information.

Does my insurance cover the outside facility?

This will depend on your insurance coverage. Referral staff contact the specialist office to verify they take your insurance. If your preferred specialist does not take your insurance, you will be notified if you would like to continue with that location or if you would like to find you a new place that does accept your insurance. If you are on sliding fee, you will have to inquire with the outside facility about cost for your visit.

How is the outside facility notified that I have been referred to their office?

Referral staff will fax all the necessary information to outside facility.

Should I call the outside facility to make an appointment?

You may do so, if that is your preferred choice, or our staff can call for you.

Who is responsible for scheduling follow-up appointments after the first visit?

You will be responsible for making follow up appointments. We also have patients' assistance liaisons (PAL) that can help, contact the front desk if you would like a PAL to assist you.

Can I request a change in facility/provider if I am unsatisfied/scheduling issues/distance?

Yes. Contact the referrals department to ask about making this change and they will gladly help.

Is there a difference between a referral and a procedure/x-ray/ultrasound/MRI order?

Yes. Referrals are for outside specialists. Procedures/ X-Rays/Ultrasound/MRI are orders that most times are done in house or do not require a referral. An order is either electronically sent to the outside office or a paper order and instructions are given to you before you leave your appointment. You will need to contact the outside facility to ask if it is on a walk-in basis or if an appointment is needed.