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Health Information and Tools >  Outpatient Services

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Outpatient Services

Overview

What are outpatient services?

Outpatient services are medical procedures or tests that can be done in a medical centre without an overnight stay. Many procedures and tests can be done in a few hours. Outpatient services include:

  • Wellness and prevention, such as counselling and weight-loss programs.
  • Diagnosis, such as lab tests and MRI scans.
  • Treatment, such as some surgeries and chemotherapy.
  • Rehabilitation, such as drug or alcohol rehab and physiotherapy.

What are the benefits of outpatient services?

Outpatient services usually cost less because you don't need to stay overnight. Staff members at outpatient centres are well trained in the service they provide. Most of the time, these centres specialize in one kind of treatment or procedure. Often all the care you need can be provided in one place.

Who uses outpatient services?

Most people can use an outpatient centre instead of a hospital if the needed service is available. But not all medical procedures can or should be done at an outpatient centre.

How can you know if the outpatient centre is trustworthy?

Try to find out all you can about the outpatient centre before you use it. It's a good idea to visit the centre before you decide.

You can also ask what your doctor thinks, or ask the outpatient centre staff if they have patient surveys or internal quality check reports you can look at.

Information about Outpatient Services

Current as of: April 30, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Ignite Healthwise, LLC, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.

Information about Outpatient Services

Current as of: April 30, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.