SESLHD State-Wide Referral Criteria (SRC) 

SESLHD is preparing to implement the next phase of the NSW Statewide Referral Criteria (SRC) for referrals to public hospital outpatient services.  

The SRC establishes consistent clinical referral requirements across NSW, helping general practitioners and other referrers to:  

• Determine when referral to a public outpatient service is appropriate  
• Provide the clinical information required to support effective triage  
• Improve timely and equitable access to care for patients  

Services Included  

From November 2026, the next phase of the SRC will apply to referrals for:  

• Cardiology  
• Nephrology  
• Respiratory & Sleep Medicine  

What this means for referrers  

Referrals submitted from 20 November 2026 should align with the relevant Statewide Referral Criteria.  

Providing complete referral information at the time of referral will support accurate clinical triage and help minimise delays associated with requests for additional information.  

Referrals that do not meet the applicable criteria may result in:  

• Delayed access to care for patients  
• Requests for further clinical information  
• The referral being returned with advice regarding alternative care pathways or management options  

The implementation of the SRC aims to improve referral quality, support consistent triage practices, and ensure patients are directed to the most appropriate service in a timely manner.  

View the Statewide referral criteria