Ask About a Specialist Referral in Brazilian Portuguese
Learn how to ask about an encaminhamento, clarify which professional to contact, and confirm what information to bring.
Real Life Portuguese · 5 min read · Updated October 15, 2026
The short answer
Encaminhamento is a referral or direction to another service. The healthcare professional decides whether one is appropriate for your situation. You can ask a clear question without assuming that you need a specific specialist.
Ask whether a referral is appropriate
Name the concern you want to discuss in simple language, then ask what the recommended next step is. If you do not understand the answer, ask the professional to explain the options again.
Você acha que preciso consultar um especialista?
Do you think I need to see a specialist?
Qual seria o próximo passo?
What would be the next step?
Clarify the type of referral and where to book
If a referral is recommended, confirm the specialty and how to arrange the appointment. Ask whether the office will provide the encaminhamento or whether you should contact another service.
The process can depend on the clinic, insurer, or public service. Ask the provider what applies to you and where to confirm any administrative requirement.
O encaminhamento é para qual especialidade?
Which specialty is the referral for?
Onde devo marcar essa consulta?
Where should I schedule this appointment?
Check what information to bring
Before a new appointment, ask whether the specialist needs a referral document, previous records, or another item. Requirements vary, so let the receiving clinic explain what to bring.
You can ask how to request a copy of the referral and whether the office can send it electronically. Confirm the method and destination directly with staff.
Quais documentos devo levar?
Which documents should I bring?
Posso receber uma cópia do encaminhamento por e-mail?
Can I receive a copy of the referral by email?
Put it into practice
Use the professional’s recommendation to guide medical decisions, then ask the clinic or insurer about the current referral process.
Quick practice
Which Portuguese example matches “Can I receive a copy of the referral by email”?
Choose an answer to check yourself.
Keep practicing with the Real Life Portuguese app
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