OAY: Referral Validity Extended to 12 Months for Specialists

The Health Insurance Organisation (OAY) has announced the extension of the validity of referrals to Specialist Doctors from six to twelve months. The change takes effect from July 31, 2025, and applies to all beneficiaries of the GHS.

According to the OAY, the extension applies to referrals issued from July 31, 2025, onwards. Referrals issued before this date will remain valid for six months from their issue date.

The number of visits per referral remains unchanged, with two visits allowed for each short-term referral.

The decision was based on requests from scientific societies of Personal and Specialist Doctors and experience from the operation of the GHS. The new regulation offers GHS beneficiaries better service and more flexibility.