Which term describes a request made by patients themselves to see a specialist?

The term that describes a request made by patients themselves to see a specialist is "self-referral." This process occurs when patients independently decide that they need specialized care and take the initiative to seek out a specialist without a formal recommendation from their primary care physician or another healthcare provider.

In the context of healthcare, self-referral allows patients to exercise their autonomy in managing their health, as they may feel that a specialist's expertise is necessary for their specific symptoms or conditions. This can be advantageous as it may expedite the process of receiving specialist care, especially when patients have prior knowledge of their health needs and are proactive in seeking assistance.

The other terms presented do not accurately describe this situation. A direct referral typically involves a healthcare provider recommending a patient to a specialist, while a verbal referral may imply a less formal process of recommendation. A formal referral usually follows established protocols, often requiring documentation and approval by a primary care physician. None of these terms encapsulate the patient's initiative and autonomy that characterizes self-referral.