Department of Health
A patient consults with their GP

Specialty: General surgery
Age group: Adult

Direct to an emergency department for:

  • Sepsis or acutely unwell due to infection.

Criteria for referral to public hospital service

Persistent perianal lump with symptoms of concern (e.g. night sweats, unexplained weight loss, tenesmus, recent change in bowel habits).

Information to be included in the referral

Information that must be provided

  • Findings on physical examination
  • Onset, characteristics and duration of symptoms of concern.

Provide if available

Not applicable

Additional comments

The Summary and referral information lists the information that should be included in a referral request.

Where appropriate and available, the referral may be directed to an alternative specialist clinic or service.

Referral to a public hospital is not appropriate for

  • Perianal lumps without concerning features or that have resolved
  • Asymptomatic skin tags.

Reviewed 27 May 2025

Statewide Referral Criteria

Contact us

Address
50 Lonsdale Street
Melbourne, VIC 3000

Phone
1300 650 172
National Relay Service

Email
plannedcare@health.vic.gov.au