Searching for self-referral information
Although self-referral was put forward by patients or their families, medical professionals remained an important source of information.
“We consulted relatives, my cousin, who worked at another hospital. He recommended the Director of Nephrology. Even now, we keep contact with my cousin” (P8)
The internet was another key channel to obtain information, patients reported they searched for a mass of referral information for choosing hospital and preferred physicians before the referral.
“We look up information on the internet. It is the most convenient way to get the most comprehensive information. Ah, the only downside is we can’t distinguish the truth from falsehood.” (P11)