How to determine if I need inpatient or outpatient care?
Whether you need inpatient or outpatient care is entirely based on the type of medical care you require. Major surgery, intensive care, treatment of serious illness, and around-the-clock medical care are some examples that need you to be formally admitted to the hospital for an overnight stay or more. On the other hand, minor medical treatments, including minor surgeries, treatment, medical screenings, etc., do not require an overnight stay in a hospital.
Do you have health insurance coverage for inpatient and outpatient medical care?
Most health insurance plans are designed to provide health insurance coverage for inpatient care that requires you to be hospitalised for 24 hours. However, some plans are designed to provide coverage for outpatient medical care. You need to verify the terms and conditions of the policy before you can choose the right health plan for you.
Which is the right plan, inpatient or outpatient health insurance?
Take time to choose the plan that suits you and your family’s requirements. If you foresee considerable medical expenses towards outpatient care, such as regular doctor consultations during maternity, you should consider opting for a health insurance plan that offers outpatient care. In comparison, an inpatient cover acts as a safety net against unforeseen emergencies and major surgeries that require hospitalisation for more than 24 hours.