The Union Health Ministry and DGHS have issued guidelines stating that junior doctors should not make decisions on inter-hospital referrals without consulting senior residents or consultants.

The guidelines address variability, lack of accountability, communication problems, delays, communication breakdowns, and inconsistent referral practices that can negatively impact patient care.

They emphasize prompt action, clear documentation, and effective communication.

Hospitals must develop SOPs based on these guidelines to enhance patient outcomes and interdisciplinary collaboration.

Hospitals are advised to create a roster with contact details and availability of various units, which should be accessible on the website and within the institution for streamlining workflows.

This emphasizes the importance of comprehensive care through robust referral policies, especially for patients with co-morbid conditions or multi-systemic manifestations.

Clear communication with patients about the referral process and meticulous documentation in the medical or electronic health record are crucial for accuracy and accountability.

Hospitals are encouraged to standardize referral protocols, streamline workflows, and provide training to ensure efficient and effective patient care.

These points aim to enhance the quality of patient care and ensure a multidisciplinary approach to treating patients with co-morbidities and improve the referral process and patient care in public hospitals.