How to make a Referral

Referrals may be initiated by the family physician, other health care providers, seniors themselves, family members/informal caregivers.  The client must agree to the referral.

These clinical services are provided in association with each client’s family physician covered by OHIP and free to the individual. Clients, family/informal caregivers or other health professionals are requested to contact the family physician to discuss a possible referral.  

If the client does not have a family physician, please contact the RGP Intake Secretary to discuss referral options. Under certain circumstances, the Outreach Service may complete an in‑home assessment and provide a written report to the client to facilitate communication at a Walk-in Clinic or a hospital Emergency Department.

All referrals should be directed to the Intake Secretary (613-544-7767 or 1-800-214-5848).  Physicians should complete a Physician Referral Form (see PDF attached) and fax to the Intake Secretary at 613-544-4017.

Referrals are reviewed by the geriatrician (excluding referrals to Acute Care Consult Service) to determine client’s appropriateness for services.  If not appropriate, recommendations for alternative services such as Geriatric Psychiatry or for community support services may be offered.

If the client is appropriate for SGS services, the referral will be forwarded to the designated clinical service.  For referred clients who reside in the community or are patients in community hospitals, the Outreach Service is the initial contact service.  For clients referred from KGH or HDH, the Acute Care Consult Service will respond.  Direct referrals to Day Hospital, the Geriatric Inpatient Service or, in most cases, Geriatric Clinics, are not accepted.