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Categorisation of referrals

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After receiving a valid referral from a health professional, advice is provided on the patient's category depending on the urgency of their condition and they are placed on the outpatient waiting list. Clinical urgency categories for use in all Department of Health (Tasmania) outpatient services require the fulfilment of ALL criteria listed for that category.

  • If a patient does not fulfil all criteria for Category 1, then the patient is allocated Category 2 status.
  • If a patient does not fulfil all criteria for Category 2, then the patient is allocated Category 3 status.
  • The category system ensures that all patients are seen in order of priority.
  • There are three urgency categories, where 1 is most urgent and 3 is least urgent.

Visit our outpatient services website for more information

Summary of categories

  • Appointment within thirty (30) days is desirable.
  • The condition will require more complex or emergent care if the assessment is delayed.
  • The condition will have a significant impact on quality of life if care is delayed beyond thirty (30) days.

  • Appointment within ninety (90) days is desirable.
  • The condition has the potential to require more complex care if the assessment is delayed.
  • The condition has the potential to have some impact on quality of life if care is delayed beyond ninety (90) days.

  • Appointment is within 365 days is desirable.
  • The condition is unlikely to deteriorate quickly.
  • The condition is unlikely to require more complex care if the assessment is delayed beyond 365 days.
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