Author/Authors :
Qureshi, N.A. Ministry of Health - Research Unit, Administration for Mental Health and Social Services, Saudi Arabia , van der Molen, H.T Erasmus University - Faculty of Social Sciences - Department of Psychology, the Netherlands , Schmidt, H.G Erasmus University - Faculty of Social Sciences - Department of Psychology, the Netherlands , Al-Habeeb, T.A. King Saud University - Division of Psychiatry, Saudi Arabia , Al-Habeeb, T.A. King Khalid University Hospital , Magzoub, M.E.M. National Guard Hospital - College of Medicine - Department of Medical Education, Saudi Arabia
Abstract :
The development and implementation of quality referral systems reflects sound national health planning. This review appraised the data on referral systems, in particular psychiatric referrals, with special reference to Saudi Arabia. A computer search was made of relevant literature in the past 2 decades. The rate and process of referring patients through referral letters varies globally across practice settings and is initiated by an array of factors linked with health consumers, health providers and delivery systems. Referral systems, including consultation–liaison services, are an essential component of any health care organization for offering a complete range of good quality, specialized health services.
