Understanding Dermatology Referrals
Patient Resources | Referral Guide
Essential information about accessing specialized dermatological care in Canada.
Referral Information
How Referrals Work
In Canada, access to a dermatologist requires a referral from a licensed healthcare provider. This referral-based system ensures that patients receive appropriate specialist care and that clinical resources are allocated effectively.
The sections below outline which providers are eligible to submit referrals, the steps involved in the referral process, typical wait times, and how to prepare for an initial dermatology consultation.
Eligible Referral Sources
Who Can Refer You
A referral from a licensed healthcare provider is required to access dermatological services at the Centre. Referrals are accepted from the following providers:
Family Physicians
Primary care doctors who manage overall health and coordinate specialist referrals.
Nurse Practitioners
Licensed nurse practitioners authorized to assess, diagnose, and refer patients for specialist care.
Walk-in Clinic Doctors
Physicians at walk-in clinics who identify conditions requiring dermatological evaluation.
Other Medical Specialists
Specialists in other fields who identify dermatological concerns during patient care.
Emergency Room Physicians
ER doctors who refer patients with skin conditions requiring follow-up specialist assessment.
Pediatricians
Physicians specializing in children's health who identify pediatric dermatological conditions requiring specialist care.
Step by Step
The Referral Process
Initial Assessment
The primary healthcare provider evaluates the condition to determine if specialist care is needed. Symptoms, medical history, and any treatments already attempted are documented.
Referral Submission
A referral is submitted to the clinic by the healthcare provider, including relevant clinical details such as the condition description, medical history, and any previous treatments.
Referral Review
Each referral is reviewed by the clinical team to:
- Assess urgency
- Ensure all necessary information is included
- Determine appropriate appointment timing
Scheduling
Once the referral is processed, the clinic contacts the patient to:
- Schedule the initial consultation
- Provide preparation instructions
- Explain required documentation
Forms and Booking
Get Started
Medical Dermatology
Comprehensive physician-directed care for complex skin conditions. Covered by provincial health insurance with a valid referral.
Healthcare providers can use the referral form below to submit a referral to the Centre. The completed form should be faxed along with any supporting clinical documentation.
Fax completed forms to (905) 493-1170
Procedural Dermatology
Professional elective removal of benign growths and advanced treatment options. No referral required.
- Board-certified dermatologist
- Advanced treatment techniques
- No physician referral required
Referral Requirements
What to Include in a Referral
To ensure efficient processing, referrals should include as much of the following information as possible:
Condition Description
A detailed description of the presenting condition, including onset, duration, and symptoms.
Medical History
Relevant medical history including previous dermatological conditions and comorbidities.
Current Medications
A complete list of current medications, including topical treatments and supplements.
Previous Treatments
Details of any treatments already attempted for the condition and their outcomes.
Test Results
Any relevant laboratory results, biopsy reports, or diagnostic imaging, if applicable.
Allergies
Known drug allergies, contact sensitivities, and any previous adverse reactions to treatments.
What to Expect
Wait Times and Priority Cases
Typical wait times vary based on several factors:
- Urgency of the condition
- Current patient volume
- Type of condition
Priority Cases
Certain conditions receive expedited appointments, including:
- Suspected skin cancers
- Severe inflammatory conditions
- Rapidly progressing conditions
- Post-operative complications
While Awaiting an Appointment
- The referring physician should be kept informed of any significant changes in condition while awaiting the appointment
- If a condition worsens significantly, the referring physician should be contacted for reassessment
- The clinic should be notified if contact information changes
Appointment Preparation
Preparing for Your Visit
The following documents should be brought to the initial consultation to ensure a thorough assessment:
Valid health card
Provincial health insurance card (e.g., OHIP) must be current and valid.
Government-issued photo ID
A valid photo ID such as a driver's license or passport.
Complete medical history
Including prior diagnoses, surgeries, and relevant family history.
List of current medications
All prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, and supplements.
Recent test results or imaging
Any recent bloodwork, biopsy reports, or diagnostic imaging results.
Emergency Situations
- For a medical emergency, visit the nearest emergency department immediately.
- For urgent skin conditions, contact the primary care provider or visit an urgent care center.
- If a condition worsens significantly while awaiting an appointment, contact the referring physician for reassessment.
- Notify the clinic of any changes in condition or contact information.
Ready to Begin the Referral Process?
Clinic staff are available during business hours to answer questions about the referral process, required documentation, and appointment scheduling. A referral from a licensed healthcare provider is required before an appointment can be booked. Additional answers to common questions can be found in the FAQ section.
Hours: Mon-Fri, 8AM - 3PM
Phone: (905) 493-5700