Which term refers to ensuring that a referral contains sufficient patient information for care planning?

• A. Valid Referral
• B. Specific ROC Date
• C. Hospitalist Referral
• D. Transfer Date

Answer: (A)

Ensuring referrals contain enough patient information to support care planning is essential. A valid referral signals that all necessary clinical and contact details are present so the home health team can quickly understand the patient’s needs, coordinate services, and begin appropriate care without delays. This includes key items such as diagnoses, current medications and allergies, medical history, functional status, living situation, and who to contact.

The other terms don’t address the sufficiency of information. A referral with a specific ROC date focuses on timing rather than completeness. A hospitalist referral describes who the referral is from, not whether it contains the needed patient data. A transfer date only notes when the patient moves, not whether the referral provides the information required to plan care.