Understanding In-Patient, Out-Patient, and Day-Patient Care

What is inpatient care?

Inpatient care is when you need to stay overnight in a hospital or clinic for medical treatment. It’s like staying as a guest in the hospital. You receive round-the-clock care from doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals. Inpatient care is usually necessary for more serious medical conditions that require close monitoring and intensive treatment.

What is daypatient care?

Daypatient care is a type of inpatient care where you receive medical treatment or procedures during the day, but you don’t need to stay overnight. It’s a middle ground between inpatient and outpatient care (see below). Daypatient care is often used for surgeries or treatments that require a few hours of monitoring but don’t require an overnight stay.

What is outpatient care?

Outpatient care is when you visit a hospital, clinic, or healthcare provider for medical services or treatment, but you don’t need to stay overnight. It typically involves consultations, diagnostic tests, physiotherapy, minor procedures, or follow-up visits. Outpatient care is suitable for less severe medical conditions or routine check-ups where hospitalisation is not required.

What are the differences between inpatient and outpatient care?

The main difference is whether you stay overnight in the hospital or not. Inpatient care is for more serious conditions, while outpatient care is for less severe ones. Inpatient care provides round-the-clock attention, including meals and accommodation. In contrast, outpatient care allows you to return home the same day and doesn’t involve staying overnight.

Inpatient care involves more comprehensive treatment, such as major surgeries or complex procedures. On the other hand, outpatient care usually includes consultations, diagnostic tests, minor treatments, or therapy sessions.

Daypatient care is a specific type of inpatient care where you stay in the hospital for a few hours but not overnight. It is often used for surgeries or treatments that require a period of monitoring or recovery before you can go home.