Referrals: Next Steps for Patients and Families

Your provider has submitted a referral to a specialist on your behalf. What should you expect once you leave the primary care provider's office?

Overview
Appointment Scheduling
Transportation
Insurance & Financial Assistance
Interpreter Services
Locations

What's a Referral?

A referral is when someone’s regular doctor (their primary care doctor) thinks they need to see a doctor who focuses on a specific health issue. The referral helps connect them to that special doctor.

Your Child Has Been Referred to a Special Doctor at Nationwide Children's: What's Next?

You will get a call, text or MyChart message from the hospital to schedule.

  • The phone call will probably come from a (614) 722 number or a (614) 355 number.

If you are NOT contacted within 5 days, call Central Scheduling at (614) 722-6200.

Transportation

If your child has Ohio Medicaid, Medicaid can arrange and pay for your ride to the appointment.

Call 1-800-324-8680 at least 48 hours before the appointment to schedule transportation to the appointment.

Insurance and Financial Assistance

If you need assistance in applying for Medicaid or other financial assistance, please call our financial counselors at (614) 722-2070.

Will You Need an Interpreter's Assistance to Schedule an Appointment?

If you need an interpreter, call a language-specific, toll-free phone number. You can find your language in the list below. You will be connected to an interpreter and then to Nationwide Children’s. The operator will connect you to the right Nationwide Children’s department. The interpreter will stay on the phone to help you.

Schedule at a Location Near You

Find care for your child close to where you live. Explore Nationwide Children’s Hospital’s Primary Care and Close To Home℠ locations to find the right option for your family.

Close to Home Centers

Primary Care Locations

Other Specialty Services Centers

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Preparing for a Primary Care or Clinic Visit

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