Guidance on Proformas and Referral Forms in General Practice

This guide outlines the use of proformas and referral forms in general practice, specifically addressing the concerns of workload and bureaucracy faced by GPs. It explains that while referral forms are often requested by Acute, Community, and Mental Health Trusts, their use is not a contractual requirement. The document emphasizes that a relevant referral letter is sufficient for patient referrals, as the information requested in many forms may not pertain to the patient's medical condition. It also discusses the NHS standard contract, which mandates the use of the e-RS referral system but does not necessitate accompanying forms. The guide further details the recommendations for fast-track referrals for suspected cancer and provides answers to frequently asked questions regarding the use of referral forms, including the option for GPs to continue using them in specific situations. Additionally, it includes a template letter for addressing referral rejections due to incomplete forms, reinforcing the necessity of relevant information for safe patient care.