The OPD Registration Number is a specific identification number assigned to a patient when they visit the Out Patient Department (OPD) of a hospital for consultation. Unlike an IPD (In-Patient) number which is for admissions, the OPD number is for patients who visit doctors for advice, tests, or minor procedures and go home the same day.
In large government hospitals (like AIIMS) or private chains, this number is critical. It helps the hospital manage the queue, retrieve your file for follow-up visits, and bill you correctly.
What Does OPD Registration Number Mean?
- Daily ID: Some hospitals generate a new number every day (e.g., Token 55).
- Permanent ID (UHID): Most modern hospitals link the OPD visit to a permanent UHID. The OPD slip usually contains both the UHID and the specific “Visit ID” or “OPD No”.
Why OPD Number is Important
- Queue Management: The display board outside the doctor’s room shows this number.
- Lab Tests: You cannot get an X-ray or Blood Test without quoting the active OPD number on the billing counter.
- Follow-up: When you return after 3 days with reports, the doctor pulls your history using this number.
Where is OPD Number Used?
- Prescription Slip: Printed at the top right corner.
- Payment Receipt: Mentioned to link the payment to the consultation.
- Pharmacy: Used to dispense the correct medicines.
How to Find or Check OPD Number
- Registration Card: The first paper you get after paying the consultation fee.
- SMS: “Dear Patient, your OPD registration is successful. OPD ID: 100223.”
- Online Portal: If you booked via ORS (Online Registration System), the appointment slip sent to email has the OPD/Appointment ID.
Example of OPD Number Usage
Scenario: You visit the Eye Dept.
- Counter: You pay ?500.
- Slip: You get a slip with OPD No: 4455 and Room No: 12.
- Wait: You watch the screen. When 4455 flashes, you go in.
- Prescription: The doctor writes medicines on a paper labeled with 4455.
Common Problems or Errors
- Losing the Slip: If you lose the OPD slip, you may have to register again or pay for a duplicate card, as doctors won’t see you without the file.
- Date Expiry: An OPD registration is valid usually for 1 week or 15 days. If you come after a month, you need a new OPD number (Renewed).
Important Things to Remember
- Keep the latest OPD slip at the top of your file.
- Government hospitals often have valid-for-1-month rules on one registration.
- It is linked to your Health ID.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the full form of OPD?
OPD stands for Out Patient Department. It is the section of the hospital where patients are diagnosed and treated without being admitted to a bed overnight.
How long is an OPD registration valid?
It depends on the hospital policy. In many government hospitals, one registration card is valid for 15 to 30 days for follow-up visits. In private hospitals, it is often valid for 5 to 7 days for a free review.
Is OPD number the same as UHID?
Not always. UHID (Unique Health ID) is your permanent file number in that hospital (lifetime). OPD Number might be a specific transaction number for that day’s visit or appointment.
Can I book an OPD number online?
Yes, for government hospitals, you can use the ORS (Online Registration System) portal (ors.gov.in). For private hospitals, you can use their apps or website to book a slot and get an Appointment ID.
What happens if I miss my OPD turn?
If you miss your number in the queue, you usually have to inform the nurse or attendant. They may slot you in after a few patients or at the end of the queue.