What is the process for getting a referral to a psychiatrist?

Question

I know you generally have to get a referral from your physician, but does that mean the doctor gets to decide who I should see? If they see the need to refer me to a specialist, then do they have a obligation to refer you to a particular facility and/or psychiatrist or do you have a say in where you would like to go and who you would like to see?

Answer 1

My guess is that it depends on what country you are in  and what the policy of the doctor is.

I live in NZ and the doctor refers us to see a psychiatrist.  My doctor wanted me to see a certain psychiatrist but I was eventually referred to someone else.  If you have need for a specialist then again the doctor does the referral and the facility.

Answer 2

It really helps to have a referral from your treating physician. You have a choice of which psychiatrist you would like to see only if you have private health insurance. You can also go private by paying the psychiatrist yourself but this would turn out to be very expensive if you don't have medical insurance that covers these appointment. If you don't have insurance and can't afford to pay privately then you will go on a waiting list and have to stay with which ever one you doctor chooses.

Answer 3

It depends on your insurance - I just made my own appointment with a psychiatrist - I didn't need a referral. You can call your insurance and ask them - or you could call the psychiatrist you are interested in seeing, tell them what insurance you have, and see if they accept your insurance.

Answer 4

I agree with Zabes,  Call your insurance company and ask them whether you need and referral or not.  You may have a choice for a preferred list.  Even if you don't need a referral, it's good to get your doctor's recommendation or a recommendation from a therapist.  Some psychiatrist specialize in certain areas.  

Answer 5

It depends on your insurance as to who you can see. There may-be a psychiatrist that works with the same hospital as your GP and since they probably except you insurance you GP refers you to them.