What kind of referral requires authorization based on insurance policies?

The type of referral that requires authorization based on insurance policies is insurance referrals. This is because insurance companies often have specific rules and guidelines regarding which services, providers, and procedures require prior approval before they can be covered under the patient’s insurance plan. Such authorizations help ensure that the referral is medically necessary and aligns with the terms of the insurance coverage.

In contrast, emergency referrals typically do not require prior authorization because they must be addressed immediately with no delay to protect the patient's health. Procedure referrals may depend on the nature of the procedure and the policies of the particular insurance provider, but they generally focus on getting a patient to a specialist for a specific intervention. Follow-up referrals might also be less strictly regulated in terms of authorization, particularly if they relate to ongoing care following initial treatment.

Thus, insurance referrals specifically highlight the necessity for pre-approval in accordance with the regulations and benefits defined in health insurance contracts.