The global pandemic of COVID-19 has put a strain on the healthcare system, leading to an increased demand for home healthcare services. Home health care is a form of medical care provided in the patient’s home, allowing for a more personalized and convenient approach to care.
This study from the University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing (Penn Nursing) looks at the impact of home health care on recovery for COVID-19 patients, examining how home visits from a health care provider can improve outcomes and quality of life.
A Study on How Home Health Care Improves Recovery for COVID-19 Patients
The study, led by Kathryn H. Bowles, PhD, RN, FAAN, FACMI, Professor of Nursing and van Ameringen Chair in Nursing Excellence, examined the impact of home health care on the recovery of COVID-19 patients.
Through interviews and surveys of 1,400 COVID-19 patients who had been discharged from the hospital to receive home health care, the study’s authors found that home health care improved patient recovery. Patients reported feeling more supported and experienced better symptom management, improved quality of life, and shorter recovery times than those not receiving home health care.
These services allowed patients to receive the necessary medical care without having to leave the comfort of their homes. The study also found that home healthcare services have the potential to reduce hospital readmissions.
By providing timely and effective care, home healthcare services can help keep patients healthy and out of the hospital. This can not only help reduce costs, but it can also help reduce the strain on an already overburdened healthcare system.
Home Healthcare for Patient Recovery: Who can Benefit and What Does It Entail?
The study’s results demonstrate the importance of home health care in providing quality care toCOVID-19 patients. Home health care can provide a supportive environment for patients to recover while also helping to reduce the burden on the healthcare system. Home health care also allows patients to receive care in the comfort of their own homes, whihttps://calendar.google.com/calendar/u/0/rch can be beneficial for those who may not be able to travel to a hospital or clinic.
Home health care typically involves a team of healthcare professionals who visit the patient’s home to provide care and support. This team is typically made up of a primary care physician, a nurse, and other specialized healthcare professionals, such as physical therapists, occupational therapists, and social workers.
The team assesses the patient’s condition and develops a plan to help them recover. This may include providing medical care, such as monitoring vital signs, administering medications, and wound care. It may also include physical therapy, occupational therapy, and psychological support.
Contrary to popular belief, “in-home care” isn’t necessarily limited to elderly patients, or those dealing with disabilities, or chronic conditions. Home healthcare is accessible to anyone, and it can also help COVID-19 patients manage their symptoms and keep them from getting worse. This can include providing education on proper nutrition, exercise, and rest, as well as providing support with activities of daily living, such as bathing and dressing.
The Bottom Line: The Value of Home Healthcare for COVID-19 Patients Today and Beyond
The COVID-19 pandemic has put a spotlight on the value of home healthcare for patients. As the virus spreads, many healthcare providers are turning to home healthcare to help reduce the burden on hospitals while also providing a safe and comfortable environment for patients to receive care. Home healthcare is proving to be an invaluable resource in the fight against COVID-19, both during this pandemic and beyond.