In the face of the COVID-19 pandemic, hospitals and health systems are exploring ways to increase their capacity. One of these approaches involves offering home-based programs for people who qualify. Mount Sinai Hospitalization at Home provides hospital-level care in the homes of patients who might otherwise need to be in the hospital. Linda V. DeCherrie, MD, Professor of Geriatrics and Palliative Medicine at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, answers questions about how Mount Sinai’s Hospitalization at Home program is adapting to COVID-19.
How does the Hospitalization at Home Program work?
A team of doctors, nurse practitioners, registered nurses, and other professionals treat and monitor your health at home for a condition that would have usually been treated in the hospital. We communicate regularly with you both in your home and by video chat. That way you don’t have to leave your home and compromise social distancing. We deliver and provide medication, routine lab tests, and durable medical equipment and IVs. Social workers are also available to coordinate care and provide access to social resources.
Our staff are available 24/7 to answer any questions or concerns you might have. Following discharge, we will follow up with you or your loved one as determined by your health plan.
Has COVID-19 changed any of the Program’s requirements?
We have begun accepting COVID-19-positive patients into the program after spending a few days in the hospital first, when appropriate. In addition, since the pandemic began, we have been able to accept more patients across the Mount Sinai Health System and more insurances. At this point, we can accept almost all health insurance plans for COVID-19 care.
How do I qualify for the Hospitalization at Home program?
Most patients enrolled in our Mount Sinai Hospitalization at Home program came to us through the emergency room or after a few days in the hospital. In general, patients eligible for this program still require hospital level care. You may also need to meet other medical, geographic, and social criteria to ensure that the program is safe and appropriate for you. In addition, we require that you live in a stable residence that meets your needs for safety, shelter, and basic utilities.
If you qualify for admission, your provider will meet with you and your family to review the program and obtain consent. Your provider will then write an admission note with orders for care and arrange transportation home, usually by ambulance.