The full form of OP in a hospital context is outpatient. An outpatient is a patient who receives treatment at a hospital or clinic without being admitted to the hospital overnight. They visit the facility for consultations, tests, procedures, or treatments, and then return home the same day.
Examples of outpatient services:
- Doctor's appointments: Consultations, follow-up visits, etc.
- Diagnostic tests: X-rays, blood tests, ultrasounds, etc.
- Minor surgeries: Procedures that can be done in a short time and don't require hospitalization.
- Physical therapy: Rehabilitation services provided after an injury or surgery.
- Mental health services: Counseling, therapy, and medication management.
OPD (Outpatient Department)
An OPD is a hospital department designed to be the first point of contact between the patient and the hospital staff. It's where patients go for outpatient services.
In contrast to outpatients, inpatients are admitted to the hospital for an extended period of time for more complex medical needs, such as surgery, serious illnesses, or recovery from an accident.
