In-patient VS Out-patient: The differences and why it matters for your health insurance?

In-patient vs Out-patient Guide

‍

As the demand for medical care rises and health insurance becomes more integral to our lives, deciding between in-patient and out-patient care is becoming more complex. Knowing the distinction can help you make an informed decisions about the treatment options and plan your insurance coverage more effectively.

This guide will walk you through the definitions and examples for each medical treatment so you will know what to expect if you or a loved one requires medical attention.

‍

What is in-patient care?

‍

In-patient care is a type of medical necessary treatment that requires the admission of a patient into a hospital upon recommendation of physician for at least one overnight stay.

This type of care, known as in-patient services, is for individuals with serious medical conditions, major surgeries, or treatment that requires frequent checks or 24/7 medical attention.

Key Characteristics of In-patient Care:

The patient gets formally admitted to the hospital.
Requires staying at least one night
Common for complex conditions needing continuous monitoring
Includes procedures like appendectomy or treatment of severe infections.

‍

What is out-patient care?

‍

Out-patient care refers to healthcare where patients are treated or have minor procedures that do not require an overnight stay.

Often times, out-patient services like medical check-ups, minor surgeries, or certain therapies are done either in hospitals or at a doctor’s office.

This model of care is for condition that is not severe but requires some form of medical attention and can typically be managed by primary care physicians and without hospital admission.

It is more flexible, with fewer expenses at stake and less interference with everyday activities. Key Characteristics of out-patient Care:

No overnight hospital stay required.
Suitable for minor surgeries, check-ups, diagnostics, or therapy.
Often take places in clinics, GP offices, or day-care units

Common out-patient services included blood tests, physiotherapy, or cataract surgery is usually performed on an out-patient basis here in Malaysia.

Out-patient care costs also tend to be lower than those associated with in-patient treatment.

‍

Difference Between In-patient and Out-patient

‍

Criteria	In-patient Care	Out-patient Care
Duration of Care	Requires one or more overnight stays.	Same-day treatment; patient returns home after procedure.
Examples of Illnesses	Major surgeries, severe infections, serious trauma.	Flu, minor injuries, diagnostic procedures, therapy sessions.
Treatments & Services	Complex surgeries, continuous monitoring, intensive care.	Lab tests, scans, vaccinations, minor surgical procedures.
Admission Requirement	Formal hospital admission and discharge process.	No admission; consultation or day-care procedure.
Cost Implications	Higher costs due to hospital room charges, medical staff services, and longer duration.	More affordable; fewer overhead and facility charges, often with lower outpatient costs.
Insurance Coverage	Generally covered under hospitalisation benefits of insurance.	Often covered under outpatient rider or specific insurance plans.

‍

Be Prepared for Every Step

Whether you choose in-patient or out-patient care, preparation is key.

Malaysia’s insurance market is becoming more patient-focused, offering a comprehensive approach with in-patient and out-patient services bundled together. Through Let’s Go For Life's medical card in Malaysia, you can rest assured that your healthcare needs whether in-patient or out-patient are covered.

< Back to Our Stories