Home-based Supportive Care Model for Bedridden Patients: A Primary Health Care Approach in Rural Ballabgarh, Haryana,...

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Primary Health Care
• Palliative Care

Background:

• Bedridden patients face significant physical, psychosocial, and spiritual health challenges.
• Caregivers are essential for daily living activities and healthcare access for bedridden individuals.
• Existing care models may not fully address the multifaceted needs of the chronically ill at home.

Purpose of the Study:

• To implement and evaluate a home-based supportive care model for bedridden patients using a primary healthcare approach.
• To assess the feasibility and effectiveness of this model in improving patient outcomes.
• To understand the impact on caregivers and healthcare providers.

Main Methods:

• A primary health center in rural Haryana implemented the model.
• Health workers and medical interns identified patients, assessed needs (physical, mental, social, spiritual), and developed individualized care plans.
• Caregiver training was provided, with monthly home visits for medication and support. The Edmonton Symptom Assessment Scale-revised (ESAS-r) and distress thermometer were used for assessments.

Main Results:

• 71 out of 74 identified bedridden patients were enrolled. Common symptoms included pain (91.7%), sleep issues (60.4%), and tiredness (56.3%).
• Significant reductions were observed in distress (median 6 to 4.5), pain (5 to 4), tiredness (2 to 0.5), and depression (1.5 to 0).
• Healthcare workers reported increased self-confidence, compassion, and community respect.

Conclusions:

• The home-based supportive care model is feasible and effective for bedridden patients.
• The model successfully reduced symptom burden and distress.
• This approach offers a viable solution for comprehensive care of bedridden individuals within a primary healthcare framework.