Outpatient
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Definition: A patient who receives medical treatment or consultation without being admitted to the hospital overnight.
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Characteristics:
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Visits a clinic, doctor’s office, or hospital for diagnosis, treatment, or follow-up.
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Leaves the facility the same day after the procedure or consultation.
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Common outpatient services include minor surgeries, diagnostic tests, vaccinations, physical therapy, or routine check-ups.
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Examples:
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Getting a flu shot.
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Having an MRI scan and returning home the same day.
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Visiting a dermatologist for a skin check.
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Inpatient
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Definition: A patient who is admitted to a hospital and stays at least one night for medical care.
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Characteristics:
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Requires continuous monitoring, surgery, or intensive treatment that cannot be done on an outpatient basis.
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Stays in a hospital bed under medical staff supervision.
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May involve complex surgeries, severe illnesses, childbirth, or recovery from major medical events.
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Examples:
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Undergoing open-heart surgery and staying in the hospital for recovery.
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Being admitted for pneumonia requiring IV antibiotics and monitoring.
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A woman admitted for childbirth.
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