What is one example of tertiary healthcare services?

Tertiary healthcare services are specialized consultative healthcare services that usually require a referral from primary or secondary medical care. They often involve advanced and complicated procedures or treatments typically provided in specialized facilities like hospitals. Rehabilitation and palliative care fall under this category as they are focused on providing specialized medical care to restore functionality after illness or injury, or to improve the quality of life of patients with serious, chronic illnesses.

Rehabilitation includes services such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, and other therapies aimed at helping patients regain their independence after surgery or injury. Palliative care focuses on relieving symptoms and stress of serious illnesses, emphasizing comfort rather than curative treatments. These services highlight the level of specialized attention and intervention that characterizes tertiary healthcare, making them the correct choice in this context.

In contrast, health screenings, wellness checks, and immunizations are more aligned with primary and preventive healthcare services. These options are designed to promote health and prevent illness rather than provide the specialized, intensive care characteristic of tertiary services.