Physician Referral Service Office

Hidehito Horinouchi, Makiko Murase, Maya Ozawa, Fumiko Onishi, Ryota Shiga

Introduction

The Physician Referral Service Office was established as an independent section directly under the director of the hospital. The mission of this office is to provide appropriate access to the best cancer practice for more patients and their physicians. To help cancer patients with various needs to visit the National Cancer Center Hospital (NCCH), the Physician Referral Service Office consists of a physician, a nurse, a medical social worker and two clerks. This office also corresponds with inquiries for patients'medical records from their physician. Another important activity is to record and analyze the information concerning patients'referral to the NCCH.

Our team and what we do

1.Physician referral service

Through strong collaboration with the reservation center, this office helps patients and their physicians promptly select the proper doctor.

2.Inquiry for patients'medical record

We receive and correspond with inquiries for medical records from physicians who see patients of our hospital.

3.Relationship with affiliated hospitals and clinics

We send reminders to patients'physicians at the time of patients'first visit to our hospital. To maintain our relationships, we hold regular meetings and invite physicians from affiliated hospitals and clinics.

4.Record and analysis of clinical information

The information of all patients and their physicians is appropriately recorded in order to analyze and apply for next strategies for a better service.

5.Cooperation with intramural departments and staff

To provide the best practice, we make a considerable effort to collaborate with intramural departments, sections, and staff.

Future prospects

The Physician Referral Service Office will continuously support patients, physicians and other medical staff for better cancer treatment and care.

Table 1. Routine activities of Physician Referral Service Office