outpatient
UK: /ˈaʊtˌpeɪ.ʃənt/ | US: /ˈaʊtˌpeɪ.ʃənt/
n. a patient who receives medical treatment without being admitted to a hospital.
The word "outpatient" combines "out" (Old English ūt, meaning "external" or "outside") with "patient" (Latin patiens, from pati "to suffer"). Historically, it distinguished those treated outside hospital wards from "inpatients." The term reflects the healthcare system's division of care settings, emphasizing efficiency and accessibility for non-critical cases.
The clinic specializes in outpatient services like vaccinations and minor surgeries.
She visited the outpatient department for her monthly check-up.
Outpatient care is often more affordable than hospitalization.
The hospital expanded its outpatient facilities to reduce waiting times.
After the procedure, he was discharged as an outpatient the same day.