Expat Words · Practical guide
Derivación: A referral to another service
Understand derivación, what to check and the practical steps to take.
What does it mean?
A derivación is a referral. It connects your care with another clinician or service when further assessment is appropriate.
A referral is not necessarily an appointment confirmation. Ask who will arrange the next stage.
An everyday example
Leaving with a referral does not always mean a hospital date has already been booked.
What to do next
- Check which service you have been referred to and why.
- Ask whether you book yourself or wait to be contacted.
- Confirm that your telephone number and contact details are correct.
- Keep the referral information and ask the care team what to do if your condition changes while waiting.
A useful question to ask
Who arranges the appointment, and whom do I contact if I hear nothing?
Check the official guidance
Ministry of Health: specialist care
Sources checked on 8 September 2026. These explanations and preparation prompts are introductory, not complete procedural instructions or individual legal, tax or medical advice. Confirm current requirements with the responsible authority or qualified professional before acting.