Structuring a home visit program for residents

Home assessment visits in which a family practice resident accompanied by a social worker and a specially trained nurse go to a patient's home have been a part of the curriculum for three years. A specific format has been developed for these visits. The trainees' initial positive views about home assessment visits were maintained after the visits with improved understanding of the impact of environmental, familial, and social factors on patient health. The efforts and effects of the nonphysician health care providers in home visits were clarified. Clearly, residents can appreciate and benefit from a well-structured home visit program.