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Medical referral care

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Key points
  • A global UNHCR medical referral care guidance document exists and should be used to develop and implement country specific medical referral SOPs at the onset of an emergency
  • Two types of referrals are made: for (a) emergencies (obstetrical, medical and surgical); and for (b) elective cases for complementary investigations or specialized treatment. During emergency situations emergency life-saving referrals are prioritized
  • Use national health systems as much as possible
  • The decision to make a medical referral is always to be made by a medical professional and is based on prognosis, availability of services, and cost
  • It is essential to monitor referral care, including the reasons for referral, outcomes and costs. The UNHCR medical referral database is available to partners for this purpose

Post emergency phase

The above standards apply both to emergencies and long-term situations. 

As the situation stabilizes, a more comprehensive referral care programme can be considered including referral for elective procedures.

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