Provider to provider referral needed, but appointment still scheduled

So long story short, need to see a specialist based on some abnormal lab results. Anthem PPO insurance.

Called the specialist and they scheduled me for an appointment next week. They did ask that I get a referral and send it to them. I was under the impression my insurance plan doesn't require a referral.

So I called Anthem, and they clarified that there are two types of referrals, and the referral I am being asked for is likely a "provider to provider" referral. The agent told me from an insurance perspective, as long as the specialist is in network, I am fine without a referral and will be covered.

So since my appointment is already scheduled, what could happen if I show up for my appointment without this provider to provider referral? The front desk person wasn't really helpful and couldn't explain this to me. Could the specialist basically just refuse to see me?

submitted by /u/NeatContribution7099
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