How to Write an Effective OET Physiotherapist Referral Letter: Format, Tips & Sample

If you’re a physiotherapist preparing for the OET (Occupational English Test), one of the most essential tasks is mastering how to write a referral letter. The writing sub-test in OET is designed to assess your ability to communicate clinical information accurately and professionally. For physiotherapists, this usually means composing a referral letter to another healthcare professional.

In this blog, we’ll break down all that you should know about writing an OET physiotherapist referral letter, such as the structure, useful OET  writing tips, common mistakes, a sample OET referral letter for physiotherapist, and how to enhance OET writing by practicing and through coaching.

Understanding the Structure of an OET Referral Letter

A properly structured referral letter is the most important component in achieving success in the OET writing task. The format of the OET physiotherapist letter is fairly typical and has a formal and professional tone.

Key Elements:

• Recipient Information & Date
  On the upper left-hand side of the letter, write the recipient’s complete name, position, place of work, and address, then add the date.

   

• Salutation
  Start with “Dear [Title] [Last Name]” like “Dear Dr. Sharma.”

   

• Reference Line
  Include a clear mention: Re: Patient’s Full Name, DOB.

   

• Introduction
  A brief paragraph declaring the reason for writing the letter (e.g., to refer a patient for physiotherapy).

   

• Body Paragraphs
  
  Presenting complaint
  
  Relevant medical history
  
  Treatment administered
  
  Patient’s progress
  
  Reason for referral and specific requests

   

• Conclusion
  Offer further assistance or thank the reader. End with a polite closing.
  
• Sign-off
  Use “Yours sincerely” followed by your name and title.

   

Understanding this format will help you organize your thoughts and meet the OET physiotherapist referral letter requirements with accuracy.