How many business days should you contact a patient to acknowledge a referral request?

In the context of acknowledging a referral request, contacting the patient within one business day demonstrates a commitment to timely care and communication. This prompt response helps establish a positive relationship between the healthcare provider and the patient, illustrating that the provider values the patient’s needs and is actively working to facilitate their care.

Timeliness is crucial in healthcare settings, particularly regarding referrals, as delays can lead to patient dissatisfaction or impact their healthcare journey. By reaching out within one business day, the provider can quickly address any questions the patient may have and provide them with relevant information about the referral process.

While it's essential to maintain communication throughout the patient journey, more extended timeframes for contacting patients can create unnecessary delays and may lead to confusion or frustration. Therefore, acknowledging a referral request within one business day is viewed as best practice in promoting effective patient communication and care management.