Which level involves highly specialized technologically based medical services, such as heart, liver, or lung transplants, with therapists brought in by referral?

• A. Tertiary Care
• B. Primary Care
• C. Sub-Acute Care
• D. Ambulatory Care

Answer: (A)

Tertiary care centers provide highly specialized, technologically driven medical services in facilities equipped for complex procedures. Organ transplants—heart, liver, or lung—illustrate the level because they require advanced surgical capabilities, intensive postoperative management, long-term immunosuppression, and a multidisciplinary team. Therapists and other specialists are brought in by referral to support the patient through this complex process, which goes beyond routine hospital care.

Primary care handles general health, prevention, and first-contact management. Secondary care offers specialist consultation within hospitals but usually for more common or less resource-intensive conditions. Sub-acute care focuses on intermediate rehabilitation and recovery, and ambulatory care is outpatient and less intensive.