MDHB News

Glossary Term - O

Alphabetical glossary of health & disability services, health terms and general MidCentral District Health Board information.

Obstetrics & Gynaecology

Occupational Health & Safety

Occupational Therapist
Sometimes, when you've been sick, it can be difficult doing things like you used to. An occupational therapist is someone who will help you to get used to doing everyday things again - such as doing up your laces or getting on with your schoolwork.

Occupational Therapy

Oedema
The medical word for swelling. If you have an oedematous foot, you have a swollen foot!

Oesophagus
This is sometimes called your foodpipe. When you've swallowed your food, it travels to your stomach through this tube. It works by squeezing rhythmically to push the food downwards.

Official Information Act

Oncologist
This is a special type of doctor who looks after children with cancer.

Oncology
The study of cancer, how it develops and how it can be treated. The doctor who specialises in oncology is called an oncologist.

Operating Theatre or Theatre
This is where you'll go to have an operation (surgery).

Operation or surgery
Sometimes the doctors need to be able to get inside your body to make you sort out problems that you're experiencing. Most operations are carried out under an anaesthetic, which means you won't be awake.

Ophthalmology
The study of your eyes and diseases that affect them. The doctor who specialises in ophthalmology is called an ophthalmologist.

Oral
This means your mouth. Some medicines have to be swallowed – these are called oral medicines.

Oral Maxillofacial Surgery

Oranga Hinengaro (Maori Mental Health)

Orderlies

Orthopaedics
This is the study of bones. Doctors who operate on your bones are called orthopaedic surgeons.

Orthotics

Otorhinolaryngology

Outpatients