Objective: This study aimed to determine the rate and causes of incorrect referrals to the cardiovascular surgery outpatient clinic.

Materials and Methods: In this retrospective study, records of patients who applied to the cardiovascular surgery outpatient clinic via the Central Physician Appointment System (CPAS) between January 2024 and July 2024 were examined. Patients who should have initially applied to the cardiology outpatient clinic, based on their symptoms such as palpitations, exertional chest pain, echocardiography follow-up, and routine cardiac evaluations, were classified as incorrect referrals. They were then categorized according to the reasons for the incorrect referral and the method of application.

Results: A total of 1381 patients (809 females, 572 males) met the inclusion criteria mean age (53.26 ± 17.34 years). Of these, 1180 patients (85.4%) comprised the correct referral group, while 201 patients (14.6%) comprised the incorrect referral group. Of the incorrect referrals, 168 (83.6%) were made via the Web/Mobile appointment channel, and 33 (16.4%) through the ALO 182 Call Center appointment channel. The most common cause was the inclusion of the term “heart” in the department name, accounting for 122 incorrect referrals (60.7%). Incorrect referrals due to the CPAS system comprised 9% (18 referrals) of the total. Those based on patient preference comprised 91% (183 referrals).

Conclusion: Most incorrect referrals are predominantly attributable to patient preference. Simplifying and clarifying the department names, providing detailed information on the specific department within the CPAS system, and implementing strategies for improving health literacy could contribute significantly to reduce the rates of incorrect referrals.