Glossary
Secondary care, also known as acute health care, can be accurately defined as the healthcare services provided by medical specialists and other health professionals who generally do not have first contact with patients, such as cardiologists, urologists, dermatologists, and surgeons..
Secondary care:
Provides specialized consultation, guidance, treatment, and management of complex health conditions
The professionals in secondary care have specific expertise in the disease or injury the patient is suffering from
They are uniquely qualified to deal with complex or chronic conditions that primary care physicians may not be able to manage as effectively
Secondary care services include both inpatient and outpatient care
Inpatient care refers to any treatment that requires the patient to be admitted to the facility, such as surgery or intensive recovery treatment
Outpatient care refers to procedures or tests that can be done without needing an overnight stay, such as follow-up visits after surgery, physical therapy, or routine diagnostic tests
Secondary care plays a significant role in a patient's health and well-being:
It is in this stage of care that diseases can be diagnosed with more sophisticated tests that are not typically available in a primary care setting
It is where most surgical procedures take place
It is where patients receive specialized medical consultations
For instance, if a patient's primary care physician suspects heart disease, the patient would be referred to a cardiologist
Secondary care also includes hospital care:
This is where patients receive treatment for severe injuries or illnesses that require immediate medical attention
Hospital care can also include intensive care and emergency care
Secondary care can involve rehabilitation services
In conclusion, secondary care is a vital component of the healthcare system. It provides specialized medical consultation, hospital care, rehabilitation services, and more. It is where patients receive treatment for complex or severe conditions that cannot be adequately managed in a primary care setting. By bridging the gap between primary and tertiary care, secondary care plays a crucial role in ensuring that patients receive comprehensive, high-quality healthcare.