Effective communication between professionals is essential for good continuity of care.
Maintain legible and comprehensible records.
Share radiographs to lessen the necessity for further films (see Radiation Protection).
Develop a protocol for both routine and urgent referral of patients for various services, including where and how to contact the appropriate person swiftly and who is responsible for following up to ensure the patient is seen (see under Templates).
Let the patient know when and where they are likely to be seen on referral and complete a referral form as appropriate.
Maintain an up-to-date list of referral services, contact details and waiting times. Referrals made between Scottish primary and secondary NHS care are made via the secure electronic NHS SCI gateway.