How does an external referral typically occur?

An external referral typically occurs through methods that facilitate communication between different healthcare entities or providers. This includes traditional methods such as faxing documents, making phone calls, or utilizing the Patient Referral and Reporting System (PPRS). These methods allow for the secure and efficient exchange of necessary patient information, ensuring that referring providers and receiving providers can coordinate care effectively.

Using external systems like fax or phone ensures compliance with legal and privacy regulations while maintaining a clear and immediate line of communication. In contrast, options such as an internal email system or the clinic's mobile application generally pertain to communication within a single organization rather than between different healthcare entities, making them less suitable for external referrals. Additionally, while direct patient communication can facilitate referrals, it often lacks the structured process required for transmitting clinical information between providers. Thus, the methods outlined in the correct answer best represent the intended processes for external referrals in a healthcare context.