What is Ambulatory Care?
What is Ambulatory Care? By The Lifesciences Magazine Outpatient care, also known as ambulatory care, refers to medical treatment that is administered outside of a hospital setting and may include diagnostic testing, observation, consultation, treatment, intervention, and rehabilitation services. Even when offered in settings other than hospitals, this care may include the use of cutting-edge medical equipment and techniques. Diabetes and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease are examples of illnesses that qualify as ambulatory care sensitive conditions, or ACSC for short. ACSCs are health disorders in which effective ambulatory treatment may avoid or lessen the need for hospital admission (or inpatient care). Many medical investigations and treatments for acute and chronic illnesses as well as preventive health care can be performed on an ambulatory basis. These procedures include minor surgical and medical procedures, the majority of dental services, dermatology services, and many ty...