Physician house calls: a complement to hospital-based medical care.

ABSTRACT

A physician-oriented, hospital-based Home Care Program (HCP) is described. The staff includes a director, resident physicians, nurses, social workers, and clerical personnel. House calls are made by resident physicians during off-duty hours, but patients, their families, and other health professionals may help with their care. Drugs, equipment and supplies are available through the hospital and contract vendors. The most common medical diseases are cardiac and cerebrovascular disorders, arthritis, diabetes mellitus, chronic pulmonary disorders and hypertension. Of 513 patients evaluated in one year, 337 were admitted to the HCP. Two-thirds were women. Ages ranged from 18 to 106 (median, 68 years). Under the HCP there was significant improvement and control of the medical problems, and a decrease in hospital and emergency room admissions, and clinic visits; 207 of the 337 patients were discharged. The HCP cost less than other outpatient and inpatient services. It proved to be a rewarding, economical and effective means of improving medical care for a metropolitan population dependent upon hospital-based physicians for medical services.