POAC Radiology Referral 

• Ensure POAC criteria met before submitting referral

• Submit a POAC referral by:

  • Using the PMS POAC form to submit a new POAC referral and prepare a radiology request form (document the POAC case number on the rad request), OR

  • Submit using the online referral option HERE.

Follow instructions below for referring for radiology services.

Instructions for CT/Ultrasound (USS) referral:

1. Complete the Radiology Request Form

   • Fill out the community radiology request form as usual.

   • Clearly document the POAC case number on the form.

2. Email

   • Email the referral to referral@poac.co.nz 

   • This step is not required if using online form

3. Phone POAC

   • If during business hours, phone POAC on (09) 535 7218 

   • Provide case number or NHI to request an urgent booking.

   • Many appointments can be arranged within a couple of hours so it is helpful to keep patient on site.

4. Inform POAC of any barriers, by identifying:

   • Mobility or transport issues.  Transport can be arranged by POAC.

   • Communication issues (hearing/language/telephone access).

   • Young child care considerations.

   • Other urgent medical scheduling conflicts.

   • Support person requirements (dementia, elderly)

5. Referrals outside business hours

   • These will be coordinated next business day. 

   • Ensure appropriate clinical management plan is in place.

6. POAC coordinator will:

   • Schedule an appointment at the most convenient time and location.

   • Contact the patient/referrer once confirmed.

   • Advise of any preparation required.

   • Arrange transport, if required.

Notes:

If the patient has left the site, ensure the patient has a mobile phone and is aware they will be contacted by POAC.

If POAC is unable to assist in the required timeframe, an alternative management plan may need to be considered, or in same cases, a hospital referral may be required.

Instructions for X-Ray referral:

1. Complete the Radiology Request Form

   • Fill out the community radiology request form as usual.

   • Clearly document the POAC case number on the form.

   • There is no requirement to email the form to POAC

2. Advise the Patient

   • Inform the patient that they can attend any community radiology provider, this is a walk-in service, no appointment is necessary.

3. Emphasise Urgency

   • Clearly explain that the X-ray must be completed within 24 hours of referral to meet POAC funding and clinical requirements.

   • Encourage the patient to attend as soon as possible to avoid delays in diagnosis or management.