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Referral

All doctors at Dr. Dropin can issue a referral if medical requirements for referral to a specialist or hospital are found to be met after a physical examination. In some cases, the doctors can also assist via video.

A referral is assessed by a doctor, manual therapist or chiropractor when there are medical reasons that require a different type of investigation or treatment than what a general practitioner can assist with. It is up to the referring doctor to always assess whether there are medical reasons why you need to be referred further.

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Referral after examination in clinic

The main rule is that a referral can be issued after the patient has undergone a physical examination by the doctor. This means that patients seeking a referral from our doctors must first have a medical examination at one of our clinics. It is not always sufficient to describe symptoms over the phone, video or via e-mail.

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Referral by video consultation

Most referrals should be carried out at a physical clinic with a personal examination of the patient. This is to fulfill the requirements that must be checked by those who receive the referral and determine whether you are entitled to help in hospital, for an X-ray examination or with an appointment specialist.

If you have been for an examination in one of our clinics and subsequently want a referral for the same condition, a video doctor can usually assist with sending a referral.

We have experienced doctors who have a thorough understanding of the current laws and regulations that deal with referrals and the social security system in Norway. You can rest assured that we are here to help you.

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Where can I find my referral?

The doctor sends the referral electronically to the right recipient, at the hospital or to a medical specialist.

At Helsenorge, you can see information about what happens after you have been referred. Here you will also find contact information for the hospitals and how you can contact them.

What is the normal processing time for referrals?

From Helsenorge: The treatment center that has received your referral must assess within 10 days whether you have the right to examination and/or treatment by a specialist. You will receive a reply with information on whether you have been assessed as having the right to healthcare or not.

What happens if the referral is refused?

A referral can be refused by those who assess whether you meet the medical requirements to receive examination or treatment in the public sector. There are national guidelines that hospitals must follow and there are certain requirements that must be met, e.g. a physical examination or other investigation before you can get an appointment at the hospital. It is therefore often necessary to carry out a physical examination and obtain health information prior to a referral. If your referral should be refused, then a new appointment with the doctor you were with is necessary if the need for further help is still there.

What if I want to cancel the appointment for which I have been referred?

Contact the place you are referred to, they will help you with this.

Can I be referred to a psychologist via video appointment?

The main rule is that referrals must take place during physical appointments. For a referral to a psychologist, it often takes more time than the 10 minutes set aside for a video lesson and it is therefore necessary to book an appointment in a clinic. If you have us for examination by one of our general practitioners and your illness is well described in your medical record with us, we can exceptionally help with a referral via video.

Can the doctors in Dr. Dropin refer to the public sector?

Yes, our doctors can be referred to both public and private health institutions. They have the same rights and authorizations as a public doctor.