Refer a Patient
Referral Checklist
Thank you for entrusting us with your patients' care.
Complete referrals help us schedule patients sooner, reduce delays, and create a smoother experience for both your patients and your team.
Elements for Referral Processing
- Defined clinical question or reason for referral
- Relevant labs, imaging, pathology, or exam findings
- Complete patient demographics and contact information
- Insurance and prior authorization details (if applicable)
Ancillary Information & Order Forms
Laboratory Services
Routine and specialty laboratory testing.
Imaging Order Forms
Rehabilitation Services
Physical, occupational, and speech therapy referral forms.
Bariatric Surgery
We partner with referring providers to support patients before, during, and after bariatric surgery.
Referral Criteria
- Adults with a BMI ≥35 kg/m², with or without obesity-related conditions such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, sleep apnea, dyslipidemia, osteoarthritis, or GERD.
How to Refer
- Internal referrals: Epic to North Idaho Endoscopy and Surgical Specialists
- External referrals: Fax to 208-772-6514
Required Referral Information
- Patient demographics, contact information, and insurance details
- Recent height, weight, BMI, and history of weight-loss efforts
- Relevant medical records, including labs, sleep studies/CPAP records, imaging, and specialty notes, when available
Insurance & Authorization
- Coverage and requirements vary by insurance provider.
- Our team will verify benefits, confirm authorization requirements, and coordinate any additional evaluations.
Next Steps
- Our team will contact the patient to schedule an initial consultation.
- We'll guide patients through insurance verification, program requirements, preoperative evaluations, and ongoing follow-up care.
Additional Resources
EpicCare Link
EpicCare Link is a free, secure, web-based application connecting community and affiliate-based providers and staff to patient information in the Kootenai Health System Electronic Medical Record (EMR).
Key Hospital & Clinic Contacts
Find phone numbers and contact information for Kootenai Health departments, clinics, and provider resources.
