Home care for life-supported persons: an approach to program development

Area of Science:

• Pediatrics
• Healthcare Management
• Respiratory Medicine

Background:

• Ventilator-dependent children often require prolonged hospitalization.
• Transitioning these children home presents significant medical and logistical challenges.
• Existing healthcare models may not adequately support home-based care for complex pediatric cases.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the feasibility and outcomes of transitioning ventilator-dependent children to home care.
• To assess the impact of home care on children's medical condition and psychosocial development.
• To determine the cost-effectiveness of a comprehensive home care model.

Main Methods:

• Selection of 18 ventilator-dependent children based on medical, social, and financial criteria.
• Development and implementation of individualized, comprehensive home care plans.
• Monitoring of medical stability, psychosocial development, and healthcare costs.

Main Results:

• Significant improvements in children's medical condition and psychosocial development were observed at home.
• Families reported a safe and health-promoting home environment.
• Initial cost savings of at least 70% were achieved compared to inpatient care.
• Development of a regional approach integrating various healthcare services.

Conclusions:

• Home care is a safe and effective model for ventilator-dependent children, promoting positive health outcomes.
• This approach offers substantial cost savings and improves family well-being.
• The established continuum of care serves as a model for other complex pediatric healthcare needs and societal issues.