Treatment at home a godsend

Senior News Line

If given a choice after a medical procedure or illness about whether to stay in a hospital or to go home, most of us would much rather be at home in comfortable and familiar surroundings. In the past, the standard for care was that a patient would be sent to a rehab center or nursing home. Now studies have found that hospital-level care can be given at home for many conditions.

Think of the implications. No noisy hospital room with its unfamiliar routines and odors. No roommate to argue over which television channel you’ll watch. No strange food. No “super bugs” to possibly infect you.

In an 11-month study of a program called Hospital at Home, run by the University of Buffalo, patients going to the ER with pneumonia, cellulitis, heart failure and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease were given the choice of being admitted or receiving care at home through the program. Those who chose not to be admitted received hospital-level care at home, including fluids, medications, X-rays, oxygen and more, with a nurse in attendance at least part of the time. A physician made daily visits.

It was determined that this type of at-home care cost considerably less and resulted in fewer medical complications. Patients and family expressed more satisfaction with the treatment and the outcome.

Population studies predict that the number of seniors needing medical care will rise dramatically, but that the number of beds in long-term care facilities won’t keep pace. Even Medicaid in some states is picking up the tab for home care, realizing what a savings it is to the system.

If you’re ever in a position to need medical care that requires a hospital stay, ask about the home programs. Your long-term health might be better, and you’ll certainly be more comfortable.