---
title: "OPD Registration"
description: "How to register patients for outpatient consultation — search for existing patients, create new registrations, and manage the OPD queue."
date: 2026-07-19
lastModified: 2026-07-19
category: "opd"
author: "Dr. Umesh Bilagi"
beta: true
---

## Overview

OPD (Outpatient Department) registration connects a patient to a doctor for consultation. This is typically done by the receptionist or front-desk staff.

## Finding the Patient

Before OPD registration, locate the patient record. There are three ways:

### Method 1: Known Patient ID

Enter the patient's ID into the search bar at the top of the screen (visible when logged in). Press Enter to go directly to the patient management page.

### Method 2: New Patient

If the patient is visiting for the first time, [add them as a new patient](/docs/adding-new-patients) first. The system will automatically redirect to the patient management page afterwards.

### Method 3: Search Without ID

1. From the sidebar, click **Patient**.
2. Select **Search | Edit | Delete Patient**.
3. Enter part of the patient's name, mobile number, or other identifying details.
4. Apply filters (gender, age range, etc.) to narrow results.
5. Click the patient ID from the results table.

**Tip:** Searching by mobile number is the most reliable method — it avoids spelling variations in names.

## Creating the OPD Registration

Once on the patient management page:

1. Click **New OPD Registration**.
2. Fill in the registration form:
   - **Doctor** — Select the consulting doctor
   - **Validity** — Number of days this registration is valid (typically 1-7 days)
   - **Date** — Auto-filled with today's date
3. Click **Submit**.

The patient is now registered for OPD consultation. A token number is auto-generated per doctor per day.

## After Registration

- The patient appears in the selected doctor's **My Patients > OPD** list.
- The doctor can create a prescription when the patient arrives for consultation.
- Registration validity: after expiry, a new OPD registration is needed for follow-up visits.

## FAQ

**Q: Can I register the same patient for multiple doctors on the same day?**
A: Yes. Create separate OPD registrations for each consulting doctor.

**Q: What happens when registration expires?**
A: The patient needs a new OPD registration for their next visit. Old registrations remain in the patient history.