Most sore throats are caused by colds, the flu, coxsackie virus or mono (mononucleosis). Bacteria that can cause pharyngitis in some cases: 1  Strep throat is caused by group A streptococcus.  Less commonly, bacterial diseases such as gonorrhea and chlamydia can cause sore throat.
Do you need a doctor's referral for an appointment? Some specialty areas at Mayo require a doctor's referral, and some do not. Most insurance plans require a referral from a plan doctor in order to get access to Mayo Clinic. You should check with your insurance company or your doctor prior to seeking care at Mayo.
If you get a referral to ophthalmology, for example, you are being sent to the eye doctor. In HMOs and other managed care schemes, a referral is usually necessary to see any practitioner or specialist other than your primary care physician (PCP), if you want the service to be covered.he referral is obtained from your PCP, who may require a telephone or office consultation first. The term referral can refer both to the act of sending you to another doctor or therapist, and to the actual paper authorizing your visit.