What should be done if a new patient arrives with a referral?

When a new patient arrives with a referral, obtaining the referral form is crucial for ensuring proper care and adherence to any guidelines specified by the referring physician. The referral form typically contains important information regarding the patient's medical history, the reason for referral, and any specific instructions or requests from the referring doctor. This documentation aids in providing the best possible care by equipping the healthcare provider with the necessary background information about the patient's needs.

Additionally, having the referral form on record is essential for administrative purposes, such as verifying insurance coverage and facilitating communication between healthcare providers. This process also ensures that the patient’s journey through the healthcare system is smooth and coordinated.

Other options, such as ignoring the referral, scheduling an appointment without verifying the information, or contacting the referring physician, may lead to gaps in care and communication issues, which can adversely affect patient outcomes. Therefore, obtaining the referral form is the most appropriate and responsible action to take in this context.