Glossary
Ambulatory care, also known as outpatient care, is a broad term that encompasses a wide range of healthcare services provided to patients who are not admitted to a hospital.
These services can be offered in various settings such as:
physician's offices
hospital outpatient departments
ambulatory surgical centers
health maintenance organizations (HMOs)
freestanding dialysis centers
emergency rooms
urgent care centers
home health services
telehealth consultations
rehabilitation
palliative care
The term "ambulatory" is derived from the Latin word "ambulare" which means "to walk." Thus, ambulatory care refers to medical services performed on an outpatient basis, where the patient is able to walk in and out of the treatment facility without the need for an overnight stay.
This type of care is becoming more prevalent due to advances in medical technology and procedures, which allow for less invasive surgeries and faster recovery times. Ambulatory care covers a wide spectrum of healthcare needs. It includes preventive services such as regular check-ups, screenings, and immunizations, as well as diagnostic services like laboratory tests, radiology, and pathology. It also covers therapeutic services such as minor surgeries, physiotherapy, and follow-up care after hospital discharge.
One of the main advantages of ambulatory care is its convenience and cost-effectiveness. Since patients do not need to be admitted to a hospital, they can save on hospitalization costs and avoid the disruptions to their daily lives that a hospital stay can cause.
Ambulatory care is a critical component of the healthcare system. It offers a convenient and cost-effective alternative to hospital care for a wide range of healthcare needs.