Understanding the right level of care you need after any medical treatment program is key to successful recovery. Sometimes the choice is simple, but it’s not always clear whether inpatient or outpatient recovery will benefit you best and cover all of your medical needs. Some factors include how invasive or intensive a medical procedure or treatment is, needing specific types of medical professionals to assist you in your recovery, and how it will affect the overall cost of the treatment. Consider the differences between outpatient services and an inpatient stay at a rehabilitation center and how they may affect your recovery.

The Differences Between Inpatient and Outpatient Care

Inpatient Care

Inpatient treatment requires the patient to stay overnight under the care and supervision of medically trained personnel such as physicians, nurses, or physical therapists. This may occur at a rehabilitation center. Inpatient environments are highly organized, and the medical staff usually performs routine check-ins in a timely manner throughout your stay, ensuring that your pain is managed, you’re not in any urgent medical danger, and your recovery is going well. This type of high-level care is usually required for invasive surgeries in which the individual will need specialized care and attention or if the individual requires constant support, as is often seen in senior care environments.

Outpatient Care

If the medical treatment is minor and the patient is able to resume most normal activities independently, outpatient care may be the best option. There are often minimal recovery protocols that the person needs to follow outside the medical facility, but they’re able to perform these by themselves or with another individual who is close to them without the need to stay overnight in a rehabilitation center. Outpatient care is often the preferred choice for people who have other obligations and need the flexibility to go home and come back to the facility. This is often more cost-effective for those who don’t require round-the-clock medical supervision but who can still benefit from treatment.

If you or a loved one is seeking inpatient or outpatient treatment including elder care, assisted living services, or a rehabilitation center environment with a professional and specialized medical staff, turn to WyndRidge Health and Rehabilitation Center in Crossville, TN. This multi-dimensional health center and retirement community offers a variety of facilities including assisted living, senior care, and outpatient therapy. Visit their website for more information, or call (931) 707-5687 for more information.