The Return of Doctor House Calls: How Home Care Services Matter

Posted: 6/25/2014 10:47 AM by Interim HealthCare
For the longest time, doctors mostly made house calls only. Then, during the latter part of the 19th century and throughout the 20th century, medical clinics and hospitals became the centers where doctors operated and house calls ended up falling by the wayside. Today, with the increase in home care services and with more hospitals trying to save money by sending patients home to recover, the house call is on the rise once again.

This can signal an improvement in home care services. For those seniors who rely on home care services, they are often relying on caregivers who may not have a lot of experience with health care. This could include regular home care aides who are there to assist the senior with general care at home, such as bathing, toileting, cooking, light cleaning, dressing, and other basic care needs.

The senior may also rely on nurses and physical therapists who come to their home to monitor their health, help them with certain exercises to ensure that they make a full recovery from their illness or injury, and to administer meds and other direct medical care.

However, they still need to see a doctor from time to time. For those individuals who may be unable to get to their doctor, or for whom that level of care is too difficult, they may delay their appointments. They may forget about their appointments, or they may avoid them altogether for one reason or another.

Now, as more doctors begin to make house calls again, it is improving the overall aspect of care services for seniors throughout the country.
When a doctor is willing and able to visit their patients at home, at least their elderly patients who may not have transportation or a reasonable way to get to the doctor’s office, this can directly impact their overall health. Because the doctor is  able to visit with the elderly patient in their home, he or she will be able to get a better sense of the condition of the patient’s home and how well they are managing on their own.
It’s one aspect that doctor’s do not see in an office. An elderly individual may be living in filth and not have someone there to help them. A doctor who see this may be able to help the elderly patient find the ideal level of home care services to improve their health and future outlook.

If you or an aging loved one are considering home care services, contact Interim HealthCare today. G+