What is the first item to confirm before closing the entry form for an external referral?

The primary focus when closing the entry form for an external referral is to ensure that all relevant documents, specifically the referral request and authorization documents, are properly managed. Confirming that these documents are addressed is crucial, as they represent the formal agreement and necessary authorization for the referral to proceed. This step ensures that the patient's request for specialized services is officially recognized and that the external provider can bill for the services rendered.

While ensuring the accuracy of the patient's demographic information is important for record maintenance and communication, it does not directly impact the authorization of the referral. Verifying coverage dates is significant for determining if the patient is eligible for the referred service, but it comes after ensuring the necessary documents are in order. Selecting an appropriate template for the referral is part of the procedure but is not the foremost concern when finalizing the entry. Therefore, taking care of the referral request and authorization documents first is integral to facilitating a smooth referral process.