outpatient

noun

out·​pa·​tient ˈau̇t-ˌpā-shənt 

often attributive

: a patient who is not hospitalized overnight but who visits a hospital, clinic, or associated facility for diagnosis or treatment compare inpatient

Examples of outpatient in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

By law, prior authorization is only allowed in original Medicare for some outpatient services, certain medical equipment intended for home use, and non-emergency ambulance service. — O. Rose Broderick, STAT, 17 July 2026

Medicare also encompasses Part B for outpatient care, doctor visits, preventive services, and medical supplies, and Part D drug coverage. — Medora Lee, USA Today, 16 July 2026

And injuries that once ended careers can now be repaired through outpatient procedures. — Los Angeles Times, 15 July 2026

The motion requests that a judge allow Allaway to leave a geriatric unit at Napa State Hospital and instead take part in outpatient treatment. — Mona Darwish, Oc Register, 14 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1715, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for outpatient

• impatient
• inpatient
• patient

Kids Definition

outpatient

noun

out·​pa·​tient ˈau̇t-ˌpā-shənt 

: a patient who visits a hospital for diagnosis or treatment without staying overnight compare inpatient

Medical Definition

outpatient

noun

out·​pa·​tient ˈau̇t-ˌpā-shənt 

: a patient who is not hospitalized overnight but who visits a hospital, clinic, or associated facility for diagnosis or treatment compare inpatient