A generalist's place is (also) in the home

Area of Science:

• Medical Practice and Patient Care
• Health Services Research

Background:

• Current healthcare models often necessitate patients seeking emergency care for non-urgent issues.
• High-tech, protocol-driven emergency room care may not always be the most appropriate or efficient treatment.
• The decline of the physician house call has impacted patient access to personalized medical attention.

Purpose of the Study:

• To advocate for the revival of the physician house call as a crucial component of patient treatment.
• To highlight the benefits of in-home medical care for various acute and chronic conditions.
• To address the obstacles hindering the re-establishment of house calls and propose solutions.

Main Methods:

• This study is a conceptual and advocacy-based analysis, not an empirical research study.
• It reviews the historical context and current state of physician house calls.
• It identifies barriers to reviving house calls and discusses necessary changes in skills and attitudes.

Main Results:

• The return of the house call by personal physicians can effectively mitigate protocol-driven excess in healthcare.
• Care provided in the home is suitable for numerous acute illnesses and chronic conditions.
• Patient need for accessible, personalized care is significant.

Conclusions:

• Reviving the physician house call is necessary to meet patient needs and improve healthcare delivery.
• Overcoming obstacles related to training, physician attitudes, payment, and safety is crucial.
• A shift towards valuing and implementing in-home care is essential for a more patient-centered system.