What term describes a patient who is undergoing diagnostic or therapeutic procedures outside an acute care hospital?

The term that describes a patient undergoing diagnostic or therapeutic procedures outside an acute care hospital is "outpatient." Outpatients receive care without being admitted to the hospital, meaning they do not require an overnight stay. This model of care allows for various procedures and treatments to be conducted in settings like doctor's offices, clinics, or hospital outpatient departments, making it more convenient and cost-effective for patients who do not need the intensive resources of an inpatient facility.

Inpatient refers to patients who have been admitted to a hospital and typically require at least one overnight stay for treatment. Long-term care patients are those who need ongoing medical care and assistance, often in specialized facilities, but are not necessarily undergoing acute care procedures. Residential patients live in a facility where extended care is provided, which may include assistance with daily living. All these other terms specify care settings and scenarios that do not align with the outpatient model.