Inpatient vs. Outpatient

What are inpatient and outpatient procedures?

When you make an appointment at Hancock Regional Hospital, you will be scheduled for either an inpatient or outpatient procedure. So what’s the difference?

Inpatient Procedures

If you’re visiting for an inpatient procedure, you’ll be admitted to the hospital for close observation during and after the procedure. Inpatient stays can range from one night for minor surgeries and illnesses to multiple days or weeks for more extensive procedures, like an organ transplant or hip replacement. The length of stay largely depends on the complexity of the procedure and the recovery time required.

Outpatient Procedures

If you visit for an outpatient procedure, you are not admitted to the hospital. This may be the case for something as simple as lab tests or X-rays, or even procedures like colonoscopies or some cataract surgeries.