Most hospital care is planned.
If your GP or specialist decides you need a test, operation or other hospital treatment, he or she will ask the hospital to admit you as an inpatient. Inpatients stay in hospital overnight or for a few days for medical, surgical, paediatric, obstetric and rehabilitation services.
Elective surgery
Elective surgery is non-emergency surgery which is medically necessary, but which can be delayed for at least 24 hours.
Find out more about elective surgery.
Different types of hospital care
Inpatients
If your GP or specialist decides you need a test, operation or other hospital treatment, he or she will ask the hospital to admit you as an inpatient. Inpatients stay in hospital overnight or for a few days for medical, surgical, paediatric, obstetric and rehabilitation services.
Outpatients
Outpatients receive medical treatment without staying in hospital. Outpatient services can include emergency services, day procedures and therapy services. Even though you are not being admitted to a hospital, you will still need a referral from your GP to receive outpatient care.
When you are referred to an outpatient clinic, the medical advice provided by your GP will determine how urgently you need care. Patients with the most urgent needs will receive medical care first.
To change or cancel an outpatient appointment call Outpatient Direct on 1300 855 275.