What is the primary difference between a consultation and a procedure referral in Epic?

The primary difference that makes the choice about consultations and procedure referrals correct lies in the nature and purpose of each type of referral. Consultations are generally focused on evaluation and advice, where a healthcare provider seeks the specialist's insights regarding a patient's case. This can involve diagnosing or providing recommendations for treatment options but does not necessarily result in immediate action or intervention.

In contrast, procedure referrals typically indicate that the patient requires a specific treatment or intervention that is more hands-on in nature, such as surgery, imaging, or other procedural actions that are intended to address a condition directly. Therefore, while consultations provide a framework for assessing a situation and deciding on further steps, procedure referrals imply a move towards taking action based on that evaluation.

This distinction is essential for understanding clinical workflows and ensuring appropriate patient care management. It helps healthcare providers navigate their referrals according to the specific needs of their patients and aligns with the overall goal of enhancing patient outcomes through tailored interventions.