Virtual Home Hospital Postpartum Hypertension Care: The Patient Experience

Area of Science:

• Maternal Health
• Digital Health
• Healthcare Delivery Models

Background:

• Postpartum hypertension (HTN) is a significant cause of maternal morbidity and mortality in Canada.
• Traditional management involves frequent in-person visits, posing logistical challenges for patients.
• The Edmonton Zone Virtual Home Hospital (VHH) piloted a new community-based care pathway for postpartum HTN.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate patient experiences with a novel, multidisciplinary virtual care model for postpartum hypertension.
• To assess the feasibility and patient-centeredness of remote monitoring and in-home acute care for postpartum HTN.

Main Methods:

• A mixed-methods approach using surveys with quantitative and qualitative questions.
• Surveys were distributed to eligible postpartum patients between November 2022 and April 2023.
• Descriptive statistics and thematic analysis were employed to analyze the data.

Main Results:

• High patient satisfaction was reported, with 96% of respondents satisfied or very satisfied.
• Key themes included benefits of home-based care, robust care team support, enhanced self-management, and positive technology experiences.
• Patients felt involved in decisions, prepared for discharge, and would recommend the program.

Conclusions:

• The Virtual Postpartum HTN Pilot achieved high patient satisfaction, delivering hospital-level care at home.
• This patient-centered model overcame barriers to postpartum care, enhancing accessibility, comfort, and convenience.
• The VHH model shows promise for wider implementation in other virtual care-suitable populations.