Referrals
Dizziness/vertigo referral checklist
Referral checklist for persistent or high-risk dizziness/vertigo presentations.
Last reviewed 2026-02-07|dizziness | vertigo | neurology
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Minimum pre-referral workup
- Clarified symptom phenotype (vertigo, presyncope, disequilibrium, nonspecific dizziness).
- Orthostatic vitals, focused neurologic exam, and medication review.
- Baseline cardiovascular assessment where clinically indicated.
Urgency tier
- Same-day escalation for focal neurologic deficits, severe gait instability, or suspected central cause.
- Expedited referral for persistent disabling symptoms or recurrent episodes despite initial management.
- Routine referral for stable but unresolved dizziness requiring specialist assessment.
Referral packet checklist
- Symptom chronology and trigger patterns.
- Exam findings, objective measurements, and tests completed.
- Prior episodes, treatment attempts, and response.
Pre-referral optimization tasks
- Provide fall-risk precautions and activity safety guidance.
- Optimize hydration and medication contributors where possible.
- Arrange close interim follow-up and documented return precautions.