gp visit at home

House Calls – We Bring the Doctor’s Office to the Patient

At Mobile Physician Services, we provide comprehensive care to improve the health and quality of life of our patients – in the convenience and comfort of their own home. Our team of board-certified doctors, advance nurse practitioners, and physician assistants specialize in providing care for patients with medically complex and chronic conditions.

Our Services

We accept Medicare, many insurance plans, and self-pay.

To find out more about our services:

Call Toll-free: (855) 232-0644

E-mail us at [email protected]

Primary Care

Pain management, palliative care.

At Mobile Physician Services, our customized care teams provide patients with both comfort and familiarity as they work with a dedicated primary care provider and care coordinator to improve their health. Our physicians and staff take a proactive approach to preventive care, chronic disease management, and chronic illness support right where you live.

Each home visit includes an in-depth examination and individualized treatment plan, which is monitored and adjusted through routine follow-up visits. The primary care provider will deliver your ongoing care and will recommend to you specialty services as needed.

• Annual Wellness visits : This wellness visit allows your primary care provider to create or update your personalized prevention plan. This visit includes a review of your medical and social history related to your health and may include counseling about preventive services. This plan may help you to prevent or reduce the chances of future illness based on your current health and risk factors.
• New Illness Exams : When a new symptom or ailment arises, call us. Early indications of not feeling well could be a clue that you may be getting sick. A symptom in one part of the body may also be a sign of a problem in another part of the body. Moreover, unrelated symptoms that might seem minor on their own, could be warning signs of a more serious medical disease or condition. The new illness exam can be very brief or more detailed depending on your concerns and the provider’s findings.
• Follow-up Care: Involves a regular medical checkup, which may include a physical exam and laboratory testing. Follow-up care checks are a proactive way of assessing the potential for and preventing health problems from returning after treatment of a disease has ended or an illness has seemingly passed.
• Referral for Specialty Care : Referrals are the link between primary and specialty care. The referral coordination includes the documentation of patient care activities, the transfer of information, the inter-provider communication itself, and the integration of care services to the patient. Mobile Physician Services is a multi-specialty practice so many of these specialty referral services can be made seamlessly with little inconvenience or disruption to the patient and caregivers regular routines.
• Medication Management: Medication management is a treatment structure that ensures our patients are receiving optimal therapeutic results from their prescription medications, both in the short and long term. Our team’s goal is to mitigate medication noncompliance and monitor all prescriptions treatments so that drug interactions complement one another for the most optimal outcome for our patients.

The provider may be a physician, advanced practice nurse or a physician assistant. A dedicated care coordinator will also be assigned for each patient to help arrange comprehensive services and assist patients and their caregivers.

• Online Patient Portal: You and your designated caregiver, if you choose, will be able to connect with your provider through a convenient, safe and secure environment which allows access to your health records and a way to communicate with our staff in a timely manner.
• Telephone Assistance : On call providers are available 24/7 weekdays and weekends.

Our psychiatry team specializes in the diagnosis and management of mental, emotional and behavioral disorders. They carefully evaluate each patient to develop an individualized treatment plan to improve the patient’s overall mental and physical well-being.

• Depression : Depression is a common and often serious medical illness that negatively affects how you may feel, the way you may think, and how you may act. Depression can cause feelings of sadness, despair and hopelessness, which may lead to a loss of interest in activities you once enjoyed.
• Anxiety : Intense, excessive, and persistent worry and fear about everyday common situations. The worry or anxiety could make you feel fatigued, irritable, and interfere with your regular sleep habits.
• Dementia : An overall term that is used to describes a collection of symptoms related to an individual’s decline in memory or other thinking skills. It may be severe enough to diminish a person’s ability to perform everyday common activities. The effects of dementia can negatively influence your memory, thinking and social abilities.
• Phobias : A phobia is when you experience excessive panicking or an irrational fear reaction to a situation. If you have a phobia, you may experience a deep sense of dread or fright when you encounter the source of your fear. The fear may be a certain place, situation, object, animal or even another person.
• Behavioral disorders : Attention deficit, hyperactivity, bipolar, learning, defiant or conduct disorders are all examples of complaints that may have a detrimental impact on a person’s interpersonal relationships with family, friends, and co-workers.

Our team can provide behavioral counselling and medical therapy, when appropriate, to help a patient feel better about themselves and to assist them with better coping and managing their condition.

Our wound care specialists have been trained in the attention and treatment of all types of acute and chronic wounds. They have skill and experience in wound debridement and wound care procedures – managing chronic, non-healing wounds and infections, with a demonstrated care that fosters healing… right in the patient’s own home.

We specialize in serving homebound patients who may also be bed-bound or have difficulty in walking or moving around. As a result, immobility compression sores develop at pressure points on the body when the weight of an immobilized individual rests continuously on a firm surface, such as a mattress or wheel chair. Often these same patients are on oxygen or have high-risk medical conditions which makes it an even more challenging and stressful effort for them to travel to a doctor’s office for an appointment. Thus, the necessity for in home care and treatment.

Wounds that benefit from specialized wound care techniques include:

• Diabetic foot wounds and ulcers
• Post-surgical wounds
• Traumatic wounds caused by injury
• Arterial and vein stasis caused by lack of circulation
• Immobility pressure sores. (Bed sores from stillness)

We work closely with home health agencies to provide ongoing care and monitoring of patient’s wounds.

Our board-certified podiatrists treat foot pain, wounds, and more. Treatments may include but are not limited to treating conditions of the lower extremities which could hinder mobility.

• We will review each patients’ medical history to evaluate the condition of the feet, ankle or lower leg
• Carry out a diagnosis on the feet and lower legs through examination and medical tests
• Order physical therapy when deemed necessary
• Treat wounds of the lower extremities using various wound care modalities. This may include debridement to improve the healing potential
• Promote prevention, health & well being, the treatment and management of the foot and related problems, disability, deformity, and the pedal complications of chronic diseases for the elderly
• Prescribe and fit prosthetic appliances such as diabetic shoe inserts and evaluate for bracing if necessary
• Refer patients to other specialists for treatment, including conditions such as diabetes or arthritis
• Advise patients on ways to prevent future leg problems and increase speed of recovery
• Monitor the recovery progress of patients to determine the need for change in treatment

We know it’s not always easy to leave home to get the care you need for your eyes. Our optometrists bring state-of-the-art diagnostic eye equipment and technology to your home – making it much easier for you to get the vision care you need.

During a visit, your doctor will exam each eye for signs of serious issues such as glaucoma, cataracts, macular degeneration, and detached retinas, among other conditions.

Receiving regular eye exams regardless of the state of your vision can help detect serious eye problems at their earliest stages ─ when they are most treatable. During an eye exam, your doctor will observe and evaluate the health and condition of the blood vessels in your retina, which can be good indicators of the health of your blood vessels throughout the rest of your body.

• Comprehensive eye exams : This exam goes beyond a simple vision screening. A comprehensive eye exam includes a host of tests in order to do a complete evaluation of the health of your eyes and your vision.
• Annual retina exams : A retinal exam allows your doctor to evaluate the back of your eye, including the retina, the optic disk and the underlying layer of blood vessels that supply the retina.
• Eyeglass fittings : A prescription works best when your eyeglasses are properly fitted. Improper fitting may cause pinching, distorted vision, headaches, and even dizziness. Our doctors will make sure your prescription lenses and frames are working together for you.
• Diabetic eye exams : Diabetes does not have to lead to vision loss. Taking an active role in managing your diabetes can go a long way in curbing later complications. Regular eye exams, good management of your blood sugar and blood pressure, along with early intervention for vision problems can help prevent vision loss caused by diabetic retinopathy. Retinopathy is caused by damage to the blood vessels of the light-sensitive tissue at the back of your eye.
• Refractions: This test is given as part of your routine eye examination. It is often referred to as a vision test. This test assists your eye doctor in measuring you for the exact lens prescription you will need.
• Eye injuries: Eye trauma could be the result of a sudden blow to the eye. It may cause the eye to suddenly compress and retract which could cause damage to your eye and the surrounding tissue. Even if the injury may seem minor, all eye injuries should be furthered examined by a doctor for possible more serious and underlying injuries.
• Eye infections: The most common eye infection is conjunctivitis, also known as pink-eye. An eye infection can happen in almost any part of your eye, including your eye lid, cornea and optic nerve. Symptoms of eye infections may include redness, itching, swelling, discharge, pain, or problems with vision. Always consult with your doctor before treating, as recommended actions are contingent on the cause of the infection.
• Low-vision exams: A low vision exam is different from a normal eye exam. This functional-vision assessment determines how specific visual impairments affects your ability to perform everyday activities. The exam’s results assist your doctor in prescribing management tools and medications to better enhance and manage your remaining vision.

Pain management is the process of providing medical care that alleviates or reduces pain. Pain management is a subspecialty of general medicine employing an interdisciplinary approach to ease the suffering and improve the quality of life of those living with chronic pain by using a combination of pain medications, joint and muscles injections, and physical therapy techniques.

A pain management specialist is a provider with advanced training in diagnosing and treating pain. Our pain management specialists treat pain stemming from a variety of different causes, whether it’s neuropathic pain or headache, or the result of injury, a surgical procedure, cancer or another illness.

Palliative care is an approach to the holistic care of patients, including family and caregivers, to improve the quality of their lives after the diagnosis of a chronic debilitating disease or life-limiting illness that may cause a host of complaints.

Palliative care can begin at diagnosis and continue to be offered while the patient is continuing active treatment through different phases of their life limiting condition. Palliative care is for any patient with a chronic illness who is experiencing a decreased quality of life because of symptoms related to their illness or treatment, like renal dialysis, oxygen therapy or chemotherapy. The care is provided by a specially-trained team of doctors, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, and other specialists who work together to provide an extra layer of support to the patient and their caregivers.

Palliative care can help in symptom control including not only pain, but nausea, weakness, shortness of breath, fatigue and weight loss at any time during their diseases, not only at the end of life.

Look out for your health

A UnitedHealthcare® HouseCalls visit is a no-cost, yearly health check-in that can make a big difference. 

Call 1-866-799-5895 ,

TTY 711,  to schedule your visit.

HouseCalls brings yearly check-in care

To you at home.

Connect for up to a full hour of 1-on-1 time with a licensed health care practitioner. Every visit includes a physical, tailored recommendations on health care screenings and plenty of time to ask questions that matter to you.

After your visit, HouseCalls connects with your primary care provider (PCP) to help keep them informed about your health. It's a great way to feel confident knowing an extra set of eyes is looking out for you between regular PCP visits.

What is a HouseCalls visit? 

[Text On Screen – SAY HELLO TO HOUSE CALLS]

Say hello to HouseCalls.

[Text On Screen- PAID ACTOR PORTRAYAL.]

HouseCalls is our way of looking out for your health, so you can focus on your future. Here’s what it’s all about.

[Text On Screen – HERE’S WHAT IT’S ALL ABOUT]

Once a year, a licensed health care practitioner can come to your home to spend up to an hour with you on your health and wellness.

[Text On Screen- EASY, CONVENIENT, INFORMATIVE]

It's designed to be easy, convenient and informative.

[Text On Screen- HEAD-TO-TOE EXAM]

[Text On Screen- IMPORTANT HEALTH SCREENINGS]

[Text On Screen- HEALTH GOALS DISCUSSION]

You'll get a head-to-toe exam, important health screenings and plenty of time to talk about your health goals.

We'll also provide guidance on managing your health and if you need it, give you referrals for other health plan resources and services.

HouseCalls is a great way to stay on top of your health between regular doctor's visits.

At the end of your visit, you'll get a personalized checklist so you can feel more confident in what to discuss with your regular doctor.

[Text On Screen- COST? NO EXTRA COST TO YOU]

[Text On Screen- INCLUDED IN YOUR HEALTH PLAN]

If you're wondering how much all of this is going to cost, the best part is, there is no extra cost to you. It's included in your health plan.

[Text On Screen- HOUSECALLS VIDEO VISITS ARE NOT AVAILABLE WITH ALL PLANS.]

A HouseCalls visit takes place in the comfort of your own home or by video if you prefer.

So, say hello to HouseCalls and invite us in for a visit today.

[Text On Screen – SAY HELLO TO HOUSE CALLS TODAY]

Access one of the most popular UnitedHealthcare offerings, at no cost to you

Schedule your visit

Call 1-866-799-5895 , TTY 711

Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–8:30 p.m. ET

Your in-home health check-in

• Up to a full hour with a licensed health care practitioner
• Ask the questions that matter to you and get valuable health tips
• No cost — it's included in your health plan

Get rewarded

Meet your friendly housecalls medical staff.

Just like the professionals you see in your regular doctor’s office, our licensed health care practitioners may be nurse practitioners, physician assistants or medical doctors. They’re state licensed and maintain national certification.

We perform background checks on these professionals to provide additional peace of mind for our members. Your loved ones, caregivers or friends are welcome to be present during the visit — it’s up to you.

Ready to open the door to better health?

Getting ready for your housecalls appointment, tips to help you prepare:  .

• Wear shoes that are easily removed to have your feet checked
• Make a list of upcoming appointments with your PCP and specialists
• Make sure all of your medications, both prescription and over-the-counter vitamins and supplements, are in their original bottles for our review
• If you record blood pressure readings, please have your results available for review
• If you have diabetes, please have your blood glucose meter handy
• Make a list of questions and concerns you’d like to discuss

During your appointment

• You'll have up to a full hour of 1-on-1 time with your health care practitioner for a physical, select lab tests, health screenings and more
• A HouseCalls visit can be completed while sitting at your kitchen table or in the living room, and you can use the time to ask any health-related questions
• The visit is tailored to your individual needs, so screenings and conversation topics can vary

After your appointment

Less travel time. more face time..

Think of HouseCalls as an extra layer of care — valuable 1-on-1 time you don't always get in the doctor's office. And it's tailored to your individual needs.

Schedule today

To secure your spot, call us at  1-866-799-5895 , TTY 711

Have a question?

Find answers to frequently asked questions.  

If you have a specific question about your upcoming appointment or need to reschedule, call us at 1-866-799-5895, TTY 711 , Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–8:30 p.m. ET

We're here to help.  

In Home Medical Senior Care Services | Landmark Health

• Patient or Caregiver
• Community Provider

Are you a new Landmark patient?

Burn-out is real. landmark is different..

Living with chronic health conditions? We can help.

Our providers and care teams come to you, bringing care through house call visits. This in-home medical care is designed around understanding your health needs and goals. We work with you and your regular doctors to help you stay well and stay home.

House calls and video visits in 37 states.

Landmark partners with health plans to bring medical, behavioral health, and palliative care, along with social services, to patients in communities across the U.S. Our mobile providers visit patients in their homes through in-person house calls and telemedicine visits over video and phone.

We are the future of health care.

Landmark is one of the nation’s largest healthcare companies focused on in-home care of complex, chronic patients. Our physician-led provider groups support collaborative ties between community-based organizations, primary care providers, specialists and patients and their families.

patients nationally for which Landmark bears risk

reduction in hospital admissions

reduction in mortality

Discover the benefits.

• For Patients + Caregivers
• For Community Providers
• For Partners

Health care in your home

Old-fashioned house calls by medical doctors, nurse practitioners and physician assistants bring modern medicine to you. Feel better and stay well at home.

Covered by your health plan

The Landmark program works with health plans to improve access to care for patients with multiple chronic conditions. Landmark’s team-based care is available often at no cost to you.

Keep your current doctors

Landmark coordinates its care with your primary care provider, specialists and other community resources. Landmark provides added support to those who need it most.

Available 24 / 7

Our provider-staffed call center answers any time of the day or night. We also provide urgent visits to help you avoid unnecessary trips to the emergency room.

No waiting room

With Landmark house calls, you won’t need transportation to clinics and hospitals, and you avoid waiting rooms and exposure to germs.

Reduced stress

Patients and caregivers enjoy peace of mind with Landmark support. Landmark cares for the whole patient.

Landmark house calls put patients at the center of health care.

Collaborative care for complex patients.

Landmark’s community-based mobile providers bring coordinated care to patients with multiple chronic health conditions. We augment your care in the patient’s home.

Covered by health plans

The Landmark program is included in eligible patients’ health plans to improve care coordination and healthcare access for home-limited patients.

You remain the primary care provider

Landmark care is coordinated directly with you. Our providers reinforce your care plan in the home through physician-led interdisciplinary care teams.

Access our interdisciplinary team

Landmark’s interdisciplinary care team is available to you and your patients, including behavioral health specialists, social workers, palliative care specialists, nurse care managers and pharmacists.

Reduce administrative burden

We can help your highest acuity patients by managing post-acute care, home health orders, face-to-face encounters, and more.

24 / 7 availability

You can reach us any time, including weekends and holidays. We do urgent home visits to intervene if your patient experiences a chronic disease exacerbation.

Landmark supports your patients with complex health and social needs.

Chronic care management.

We’re one of the nations’ leading risk-bearing medical groups. We focus on giving your most complex members care when they need it, right in their home.

Over 250,000 patients across the country

We bear risk for over 250,000 complex, chronic patients, spanning Medicare Advantage, Medicaid, Dual, and Commercial, populations.

Behavioral, social and palliative care

Our team of multidisciplinary clinicians may include behavioral health specialists, palliative care practitioners, social workers, nurse care managers, dietitians and pharmacists.

Urgent in-home visits

One in four of our home visits is urgent. We bring medical care to your members when they need it, to avoid unnecessary emergency room trips and hospitalizations.

Built-for-purpose infrastructure

Our technology platform is designed specifically to support the medically vulnerable, clinically complex population.

Meaningful outcomes

Landmark commonly helps health plans achieve 4- and 5-star performance on Medicare STARS clinical quality of care, while caring for the most complex patients.

Landmark provides care for complex, chronic patients to positively impact access, satisfaction, outcomes and cost.

The doctor and nurses show they care about you and your health they are really there for you when you need them I love that they come to your house we did a zoom meeting with the nurse practitioner and she gave suggestions I really appreciate them

It was a pleasure to talk and see the doctor, she was very knowledgeable of all my conditions and gave me great advice to improve my health.

Joan was very helpful. It was nice getting to know her. How Landmark can help me

Practice health care the way you always wanted — with those who need it most.

Expert insights.

Prioritizing Mental Health as a Universal Human Right

By: Neltada Charlemagne, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-BC, PHN, BHC

Outsmart Unplanned Medical Costs: 10 Steps for Managing the Unexpected

Older adults can safeguard themselves from the physical, mental and emotional toll of unexpected medical costs.

Optum Care Network – Monarch and Landmark Health bring care to you at home.

Optum Care Network – Monarch has teamed up with Landmark to deliver in-home medical care to members with multiple chronic conditions.

Have questions about Landmark? We’d love to hear from you.

There was a time when doctors treated patients in their own home. This old-fashioned care matched with new medical technology is here again. At HouseCall Primary Care, we serve homebound patients wherever home may be...a patient's house, a nursing home, or assisted living. Our team of providers stay with our patients wherever they go.

HouseCall Primary Care offers these general areas of specialty. Select one of the services below to learn more.

House Call Doctor Visits Make Life Easier for Seniors and Caregivers

Important: This is an informational article to explain how house call doctor visits can benefit seniors. DailyCaring isn’t a medical organization, we aren’t medical professionals, and we aren’t affiliated with any healthcare organizations. We aren’t qualified to respond to any medical questions.

House call doctor visits benefit older adults and caregivers

Getting your older adult to the doctor’s office for an appointment can be difficult or sometimes impossible.

Whether they’re frail, can’t walk on their own, or have Alzheimer’s or dementia , getting out of the house is hard on both of you. Going to a doctor’s office can also expose seniors to germs or harsh weather.

We explain what a house call doctor is, what type of insurance they accept, how to find one, and what to look for in terms of services.

What is a house call doctor?

Today, many doctors are bringing back the old practice of visiting patients in their homes. With house calls, older adults don’t have to go through the stress and difficulty of getting to the doctor’s office. And neither do you.

Another bonus is that these doctors usually spend more time with patients. You won’t have to fit all your questions into a 15 minute visit.

Do they accept Medicare?

Yes, many house call doctors accept Medicare , private insurance, and sometimes Medicaid . It usually costs the same as a regular office visit.

But every house call doctor is different, so make sure you understand their fees and accepted insurance plans before making an appointment.

How to find a house call doctor

Some large health care systems like Kaiser Permanente or the VA have programs that include home visits by doctors and nurses. For example, Kaiser’s home-based palliative care program includes house calls.

Even your older adult isn’t part of a large health network, it’s worthwhile to ask your older adult’s doctor if they have home doctor visit programs.

The American Academy of Home Care Medicine’s provider directory is another way to locate a house call doctor in your area.

You can also use Google to search for “house call doctor” + your city or county or “home doctor visit” + your city or county (don’t include the quotation marks).

What to look for in a house call doctor

Before booking an appointment, make sure you understand the doctor’s services, fees, and billing.

Questions to ask:

• Do you specialize in treating seniors, people with Alzheimer’s or dementia , or those with  multiple chronic conditions ?
• Do you accept Medicare , Medicaid , or my older adult’s private insurance plan?
• If we want, can we also keep my older adult’s primary care doctor?
• Will you communicate with my older adult’s existing doctors and specialists so their care is coordinated?

Examples of house call doctor private practices

We want to be clear that we’re not recommending any specific home doctor services or companies and aren’t affiliated with any of these businesses. These are examples to give you an idea of what a house call doctor looks like and the type of services that are typically offered.

Examples of what a house call doctor looks like:

• Visiting Physicians Association (VPA)
• Bay Area House Call Physicians
• Kindred House Calls

Recommended for you:

• 4 Expert Tips for Managing Multiple Chronic Health Conditions in Seniors
• 7 Tips for Helping Seniors at the Doctor: Being a Health Advocate
• Should Seniors See a Geriatrician?

By DailyCaring Editorial Team Image: Now It Counts

This article wasn’t sponsored and doesn’t contain affiliate links. For more information, see How We Make Money .

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18 comments, tony carrancho.

My parent s lives in [redacted for privacy]. How do i get started locating a house call doctor. I am pretty sure there insurance covers this. Thank you. TONY

DailyCaring

We hope the tips and suggestions in the article above will help you find a house call doctor in your parents’ local area.

Susan Quercio

My 95 year old father has a deep cough and he is disoriented. Temp 99 degrees.

Please contact your father’s doctor immediately or the local hospital to find out how to safely get him examined by a doctor (to reduce risk of exposure to Covid-19).

DailyCaring isn’t a medical organization, we aren’t medical professionals, and we aren’t affiliated with any healthcare organizations.

Ruby m VanNostern

I live in [redacted for privacy] and need a doctor visit in home.

This article includes suggestions for how you can find house call doctor services in your area. At DailyCaring, we aren’t doctors and don’t provide any medical services. We hope you’re able to find a great house call doctor in your area.

Stewart Goldman

need Doctor for a home visit Andrews N.C.

Joseph Artusa

I need a doctor

Linda Williams

I was released from the hospital on Thursday after 5 days.I am not able to go to Dr office but most definitely need to be checked.Still having breaking problems and am very week.I have severe asthma and blood pressure was running very high from so much steroids.Could I possibly get help.Thanks so much.

I’m so sorry to hear that you’re not feeling well. Since you’re noticing some issues with your recovery, it’s essential to call your primary doctor immediately. Since they’re the ones who have been treating you and are familiar with your recent hospitalization, they’re the best people to advise you on what you need. If you need help getting to your doctor’s office, you may want to contact your local Area Agency on Aging or a ride sharing service. Or, use the tips in this article to search for a doctor in your area who makes house calls.

Here are some articles that may be helpful: — 8 Ridesharing Services for Seniors https://dailycaring.com/8-ridesharing-services-for-seniors/ — 6 Affordable Senior Transportation Options https://dailycaring.com/6-affordable-senior-transportation-options/ — Local Community Resources for Seniors and Caregivers: Area Agency on Aging (to connect you with local organizations that may be able to help) https://dailycaring.com/local-community-resources-for-seniors-and-caregivers-area-agency-on-aging/ — 4 Ways to Know If Seniors Need to Return to the Hospital https://dailycaring.com/4-ways-to-know-if-seniors-need-to-return-to-the-hospital/

(DailyCaring doesn’t provide any services and isn’t affiliated with any medical providers.)

What areas do you service?

This article explains that house call doctor services are available and could help senior and caregivers. We also share suggestions for finding one in your area, but we do not provide any services ourselves. I hope you’re able to find a great local house call doctor!

What areas do you service

This article includes suggestions for finding house call doctor services in your area. We at DailyCaring aren’t doctors and don’t provide any medical services. I hope you’re able to find a great house call doctor in your area.

need a home care doctor

I hope the information above helps you find a great home care doctor in your area.

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REcent Updates

Making sense of Medicare isn’t easy. Parts, A, B, C, D; HMOs; PFFS plans; SNPs. Navigating the system can feel like learning to code… blindfolded… with one hand tied behind your back. The point is, it can be overwhelmingly complicated. But at MD at Home one of our goals is to make quality healthcare easier to access and understand, so in this post we’re decoding the ins and outs of Medicare Advantage Plans, from A to Z.

No one wants to think about the likelihood of unfortunate events. Death, accidents, illness - we avoid these topics like the plague (both literally and figuratively). Why? Because they make us sad, because they make us uncomfortable, because sometimes superstition gets the best of us and we don’t want to tempt fate. But as difficult as they may be, these are important conversations to have with your loved ones or potential caregivers now, so that if and when the time comes, your wishes are clear. What we’re talking about is an advance healthcare directive. Here’s everything you need to know.

In 1930, house calls were standard practice for physicians, accounting for approximately 40 percent of patient visits. By 1950, this number had fallen to 10 percent, and by 1980, only about 1 percent of patient visits happened in the home. But as they say, everything old is new again, and with the coming demographic changes, it seems doctors may be making more home visits in the near future.

Diabetes and depression can each be conditions with devastation consequences on their own, let alone when a single individual suffers from both. Often times, the symptoms of one can exaggerate and accelerate the symptoms of the other, but fear not! There are a few simple steps you can follow to alleviate the symptoms and prevent the onset of both.

MD at Home provides home care, home medical doctors, and housecall physicians to patients in need with a focus on p reventing readmissions during the transition from an acute care setting to the home. For over 20 years, we’ve served as the premier healthcare resource for primary care and geriatric medicine for homebound patients in the Chicagoland area. Partnering alongside some of Chicago’s most established and respected institutions, we tailor our programs toward modern guidelines with an unwavering focus on clinical excellence, patient satisfaction, and measured clinical outcomes.   Our continuum of care and individual care plans highlight the importance of readmission reduction and high level transitions from the hospital to the home setting. MD at Home is transforming healthcare through our collaborative, proactive, and preventative approach to patient health.

Our approach reduces unnecessary hospitalizations and focuses on helping patients and caregivers better manage individual health from the comfort of their home.  Through our expertise in primary care and geriatric medicine, our licensed clinicians deliver a comprehensive approach in the management of chronic conditions to homebound patients, and our highly trained physicians and nurses are certified to perform most of the same services offered in a physician's office.  MD at Home is transforming reactive, crisis-oriented care into proactive, preventive medicine, reducing unnecessary emergency room visits, hospitalizations, and 30-day readmissions.

Who Qualifies for a Housecall Visit?

Patients with difficulty leaving home due to a mobility limitation, patients with difficulty leaving the home due to cognitive impairment, patients who require the use of special transportation to leave the home, patients with an inability to leave the home and for whom leaving the home requires taxing effort, patients requiring the assistance of another person to leave the home, patients for whom leaving the home is medically contradictory due to the patient's medical condition, accepted insurance.

MD at Home accepts the following insurance policies:

• Medicare Part B
• Medicare Pametto GBA
• Blue Cross Blue Shield (XOF, R, XOX)
• Blue Cross Blue Shield (XOS - Must have Medicare Part B as primary insurance)
• Aetna (PPO)
• United Health Care (PPO)
• United Medical Resources (PPO)

Physician Careers

MD at Home is hiring Physicians and Nurse Practitioners. Physicians with MD at Home have a luxury many other medical doctors severely lack: time . Unlike a typical seven minute visit, our physicians spend an hour or more with each patient, gaining a holistic view of the patient's health within their native environment. This not only means more insight into the patient's daily life, but also into their care support system, including interacting with family members and caregivers. This not only leads to better care for patients , but better lives for our doctors. Our physicians only work typical workday hours, allowing them to spend more time with their families, avoiding obscure hospital rounds or late nights. Our physicians using cutting-edge EMR technology to maintain up-to-date health records for each and every patient so nothing gets lost in the shuffle.

A Letter to Physicians

More time with patients, more time with your family, move healthcare forward, schedule a home visit, fast. simple. secure..

Our HIPAA-compliant online referral system is secured with 256-bit AES encryption, the same encryption level used by most online banking systems and the same SSL technology that fuels most SecureFax systems already in use by hospitals. Prefer to schedule a visit by phone? Give us a call at (312) 243-2223.  ​If you're a healthcare professional, please send additional medical documentation to our fax at (312) 243-8450.

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Referral Fax: (312) 243-8450 Clinical Fax: (312) 243-2227 2003 W. Fulton Street, Suite 303 Chicago, IL 60612

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What to Expect During an At-Home Doctor Visit

In an era where healthcare is evolving to meet the demands of our fast-paced lives, at-home doctor visits have emerged with a focus on patient-centered care. These visits offer the promise of receiving medical attention in the comfort of your own space. But what exactly can you anticipate during an at-home doctor visit? It’s important to understand the process, from the moment your healthcare provider arrives at your doorstep to the conclusion of your appointment.

What Happens During At-Home Doctor Visits?

From the initial evaluation to the formulation of treatment plans, at-home doctor visits promise a comprehensive and patient-centered healthcare experience. The journey begins with an in-depth assessment of your health, mirroring the standards of care delivered in traditional clinical settings, and continues with personalized care strategies tailored to you.

Initial Evaluation and Consultation

The first step in an at-home doctor visit is the initial evaluation and consultation. This is when you’ll get to know your healthcare provider and discuss your medical history, current health concerns, and any questions you may have. During this consultation, your doctor will ask you about your overall health, family medical history, lifestyle, and any specific concerns you have. This information helps them gain a complete understanding of your health and tailor their approach to your needs.

Physical Examination

After the initial consultation, your doctor will perform a physical examination. While this may vary depending on your specific medical conditions and concerns, a standard physical examination may include checking your vital signs (such as blood pressure, heart rate, and temperature), listening to your heart and lungs, and examining your skin, eyes, ears, nose, and throat.

Diagnostic Testing

If necessary, your doctor may order diagnostic tests during the at-home visit. These tests could include blood work, urinalysis, or imaging studies like x-rays or ultrasounds. The convenience of having these tests done at home saves you time and reduces the hassle of visiting a separate lab or imaging center.

Discussion and Diagnostic Information

Once the initial evaluation, consultation, and any necessary tests are completed, your doctor will discuss their findings with you. They will explain your diagnosis, if applicable, and provide information about your condition. This is an excellent time to ask questions and seek clarification on any medical terms or treatment options you may not fully understand. Your doctor will work with you to create a personalized treatment plan that takes your preferences and lifestyle into account

Treatment Plan Implementation

After discussing your treatment options, your doctor will initiate the treatment plan. This may involve prescribing medications, recommending lifestyle changes, or providing immediate medical interventions. The advantage of at-home doctor care is that you can start your treatment plan right away.

Follow-Up Planning

Your doctor visit at home visit isn’t a one-time event; it’s part of an ongoing healthcare relationship. Your doctor will work with you to establish a follow-up plan, which may include additional at-home visits or referrals to specialists if needed. This ensures that your health is continually monitored, and any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan can be made promptly.

How to Prepare for Your First Doctor Visit at Home

Preparing for your first at-home doctor visit is essential to ensure a smooth and productive appointment. Here are some steps to help you get ready:

• Gather Your Medical Records : Collect your medical records, including past diagnoses, medications, and any relevant medical history. Having this information readily available will help the doctor assess your health more effectively.
• Compile a List of Medications : Make a list of all the medications you are currently taking, including dosage and frequency. Include over-the-counter drugs, supplements, and vitamins. This will help the doctor avoid potential interactions.
• Create a List of Questions : Jot down any questions or concerns you have about your health. It’s easy to forget them at the moment, so having a list ensures you get the answers you need.
• Prepare a Comfortable Space : Clear a comfortable and well-lit area in your home for the doctor’s visit. Ensure good visibility and access to electrical outlets if any equipment or diagnostic tests are needed.
• Have Identification and Insurance Information Ready : Keep your identification (such as a driver’s license) and insurance information nearby for verification purposes.

In-Home Primary Care with Ennoble

Don’t compromise on your health or convenience. Embrace the future of healthcare with Ennoble’s in-home primary care services. Contact us today to schedule your at-home doctor visit with Ennoble and discover the difference that patient-centered care can make in your life. Your health, your home, your choice – Ennoble is here for you. Enroll online today .

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House Call Program - MedStar Total Elder Care

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Promoting the health and dignity of frail elders

Many elders struggle with disability and severe chronic illness and have difficulty getting to the doctor’s office. As a result, their health may suffer and lead to unnecessary ER visits, hospitalization, or nursing home care. In 1999, recognizing the needs of such elders and their families, we created the MedStar House Call program - MedStar Total Elder Care to provide full medical and social services that help elders remain in their homes with dignity. These teams now serve both Washington, D.C., and Baltimore, MD.

The MedStar House Call Program - MedStar Total Elder Care is nationally recognized for the quality and outcomes of our care. We serve patients at home with a team of geriatricians, nurse practitioners (NPs), social workers, office nurses, and coordinators. We make routine and urgent house calls (in-person or via telehealth with video or audio-only phone visits). Our medical staff is also available by phone 24/7 for urgent issues. We provide access to state-of-the-art hospital and specialty care. Additionally, our physician team follows our patients if and when they are admitted to the MedStar Washington Hospital Center.

The House Call program serves our neighbors in Washington, D.C., and Baltimore.

Medstar house call program .

(operating under MedStar Total Elder Care, LLC) 

Our program services

Medical house calls and primary care by doctors and nurse practitioners with expertise in the care of older adults

Counseling and caregiver support by social workers and team staff

We offer tests and treatments at-home, and at the hospital as needed

Home delivery of most medications and equipment

Coordination of specialist care at MedStar Washington or MedStar Good Samaritan

Coordination of home nursing, rehab therapy, and hospice

Coordination of support services such as home aides and legal assistance

On-call physicians: 24 hours a day, 7 days a week (by phone)

Mobile electronic health record (EHR)

D.C. Neighborhood only – Case management for Medicaid Elderly Persons with Disabilities (EPD) Waiver

Hospital care and specialists

Our team coordinates emergency, hospital, and specialty care at MedStar Washington and MedStar Good Samaritan. Patients may keep their previous specialist doctors; we work with them as needed. We refer to MedStar Good Samaritan, MedStar Washington, for home-based podiatry or other new specialist care. If House Call patients require hospitalization, and 911 is not needed, our team can arrange transportation and admission to MedStar Good Samaritan or MedStar Washington when beds are available.

Social work services

Our dedicated team of social workers provides:

Psychosocial assessment

Care Coordination

Development of an individual treatment plan

Information and referral to community resources and supports

Caregiver education, support, and counseling

Advocacy to connect with other service networks and legal counseling

Crisis intervention

Assistance with identifying alternative living arrangements, as needed

Eligibility

Enrollment and insurance.

To qualify for the MedStar House Call Program, patients must:

Be 65 years or older and have difficulty getting to the doctor’s office

Have Medicare, Medicaid, or another participating insurance plan

Stop seeing their previous primary doctor and agree to have us take on that role following the first visit

Live in a qualifying ZIP code

Our office is open 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday - Friday.

When calling about new patient enrollment, please have the following information:

Patient's name, address, telephone number

Patient's date of birth and social security number

Patient's next of kin and emergency contact information

Patient's health insurance information (including type and group number)

Patient's current medical conditions and concerns

Ability to retrieve patient's recent medical records

Baltimore neighbors, print and complete our  Intake Questionnaire form

As in most doctor's offices, your main health insurance (such as Medicare) covers 80 percent of House Call visit fees, and any secondary insurance covers the other 20 percent. The patients who do not have any secondary insurance are responsible for the 20 percent co-pay.

Qualifying ZIP codes

View the map below to check if you live in a qualifying ZIP code. Call our Washington, D.C., or Baltimore location to confirm MedStar House Call Program eligibility at your exact address.

Washington, D.C.,

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Washington, D.C., region team - 202-877-0570

Physicians Eric De Jonge, MD, – Section Director Guy (Binny) Chang, MD Nurse Practitioners Nancy Sassa, CRNP - Chief Alexandra (Caitlin) Geary, CRNP Michelle Sullivan, CRNP Office Nurse Kendel Ogbeab, RN Social Workers Gretchen Nordstrom, LICSW - Chief Kellie Jones, LICSW Ruth Shea, LICSW Operations Manager Isi Koroma Care Coordinators LaWanda Holeman Sandra Mills Carrie Carmon Yvette Williams

Baltimore region team – 443-444-6100

Physicians George Taler, MD Sharareh Badri, MD Nurse Practitioner Dorothy Were, CRNP Adama Panda, CRNP Nurse Nerland Dimanche, RN, MSN Social Worker Marina Nellius, LMSW Operations Director Shereen Greene, MBA Care Coordinator Taurshica Lee

Operational support

Executive Director George Hennawai, MD AVP Operations Julie Beecher, MS, MPH

Baltimore Neighborhood

To learn more about our services in the Baltimore region, call us today.at 443-444-6100.

Washington, D.C., Neighborhood

To learn more about our services in the Washington, D.C., region, call us today at 202-877-0570

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What is Home-based Primary Care?

Everyone, no matter your current health status, should have a primary care doctor – an expert medical professional who can help keep you as healthy as possible, cure you when you are sick, help you manage a chronic condition, and more.

But if you are home-bound or live in an assisted-living facility, skilled nursing facility, retirement home, or retirement community, traveling to the doctor’s office can be challenging.

This is where our at-home primary care physicians can help.

Samaritan at-home primary care physicians are doctors who make house calls all throughout South Jersey.

For more information or to make an appointment, please call Samaritan at (800) 229-8183 .

With this service, Samaritan will bring the doctor to you. By having a board-certified South Jersey primary care doctor making house calls wherever you call home, it eliminates the inconvenience and stress associated with frequent trips to the primary care office and will significantly improve the overall health care experience – for you and for your family and caregivers.

Some of the most common medical conditions our home-based primary care physicians manage include:

• Alzheimer’s & Related Dementia
• Multiple Sclerosis
• Gait Abnormalities
• Osteoarthritis
• Brain Injury
• Osteoporosis
• Pain Management & Palliative Care
• Cardiac Disease
• Parkinson’s Disease
• Pulmonary Disease
• Renal Disease
• Hypertension

To schedule an appointment please call Samaritan at (800) 229-8183 .

Our office staff is available by phone Monday through Friday between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. All messages after hours will be returned the next business day .  Appointments are generally scheduled within 24 to 72 hours of the request and the scheduling department will call to confirm the appointment the day before the home visit.

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Primary Care at Home

When you need care at home, we’ll be there.

About Primary Care at Home

Many people who need medical care are unable to get it because they cannot leave home. ChristianaCare Primary Care at Home is ready to respond to your needs. We help you meet the medical, emotional and social challenges you may face.

If you have questions or concerns, you can call our practice at  302-320-5700  or bring it up at your next appointment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who provides the in-home care.

Our experienced staff provides each patient with a team of experienced, compassionate health care professionals. Our doctors, physician assistants, nurse practitioners and nurses make house calls, bringing medical care to you at home. Through regularly scheduled visits, our team becomes familiar with patients, caregivers and family members, forming strong relationships that promote a better quality of life for homebound patients.

Our team also consists of social workers who help relieve the stress often felt by caregivers. They use community resources to, coordinate services, arrange for transportation and meal delivery and assist with insurance and prescription coverage issues.

What services are provided?

To meet the needs of homebound patients and their caregivers, we offer comprehensive services:

• Responsive care management. We respond to calls within one business day.
• Chronic disease management.
• Identification of health and social service problems for early intervention.
• Continuous, coordinated medical care between home and hospital.
• Referrals to and coordination of community-based services, home laboratory and radiology services, physical therapy and occupational therapy services.
• Compassionate end-of-life care, in partnership with hospice.

Who is eligible for ChristianaCare Primary Care at Home?

When we receive your call, our program coordinator will ask a few questions to determine if you are eligible for the program, and if so, a social worker will set up an appointment to assess your needs, prior to the medical visit.

ChristianaCare Primary Care at Home serves patients in New Castle County and Middletown.

To schedule a visit or to learn more about ChristianaCare Primary Care at Home, please call  302-320-5700 .

Primary Care First

Primary care at home is participating in a new program to enhance your care: primary care first.

Primary Care First is an innovative healthcare payment program that aims to improve our patients’ care experience by reducing administrative burdens, so our team at Primary Care at Home can spend more time with you.

Giving doctors extra support to help you get better care

Our goal has always been to provide you with the highest quality of care. Through Primary Care First, we will receive additional resources from Medicare and other health insurance companies to help us enhance our work and provide you the best quality, patient-centered care.

More information for patients with original Medicare

As part of this program, Medicare will start sharing some of your personal health information with us, such as when you receive care at hospitals, emergency departments, and specialist offices. This will help provide us with a more complete picture of your health and allow us to better coordinate your care.

If you want to stop Medicare from sharing this information, you should call 1-800-MEDICARE ( 1-800-633-4227 ). TTY users should call  1-877-486-2048 .

Your Medicare benefits are NOT changing, and this program is only intended to enhance the healthcare you receive at Primary Care at Home. You still have the right to use or visit any doctor or hospital that accepts Medicare, at any time. Your doctor may continue to recommend that you see particular doctors for your specific health needs, but it is always your choice which doctors you use or hospital you visit.

For more information about this new Medicare program, please visit the  Primary Care First webpage  or call  1-800-MEDICARE .

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Your health is our priority! Your course of treatment will never be just about diagnosis, test results, and medications; it will also be about helping you reach the highest quality of life. We do this by actively listening and understanding your personal goals so we can tailor a plan-of-care that will be created with you in mind.

Where can we come?

These services can be utilized wherever the patient resides – whether that be in their home or in a facility.

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A primary care home visit by one of our board certified and caring medical providers. A visit may be for acute concerns, regular follow-up, and annual physicals.

Comprehensive medical exam in the comfort of your home; which may include orders for blood test, urine test, radiological imaging, medication prescription, and/or specialty referral.

The ability to directly reach your medical provider for any questions or concerns over the phone or email.

New prescription and renewals sent electronically to your pharmacy of choice within 24-hours

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Home Doctor Visits: What Does Medicare Cover?

Since the beginning of the Covid-19 pandemic, patients have been hesitant to schedule in-person doctor visits ­– hence the increase in telehealth and telemedicine services. Yet, there are many conditions, services, and treatments for which virtual appointments are far from ideal.

Medicare beneficiaries may have Covid-related anxieties regarding face-to-face appointments in a medical setting, because of their higher risk. This begs the question: Does Medicare cover home doctor visits?

Types of Medicare Coverage

Before you try to figure out whether Medicare will cover a home doctor visit, you’ll need to know which doctors you can visit with your coverage. When you have Original Medicare (Parts A and B), with or without a Medicare Supplement (Medigap) policy, you’ll have coverage for any practitioner accepting Medicare assignment. Fortunately, most doctors in the United States accept the coverage.

With a Medicare Advantage (Part C) plan, you’ll need to stick to your policy’s network of doctors to receive coverage for any care you receive. Additionally, you’ll require referrals for coverage through your plan when seeing any specialist. Part C includes the coverage Parts A and B provide, which are inpatient and outpatient services, respectively.

When Does Medicare Cover House Calls?

Unfortunately, Medicare doesn’t typically cover the type of house calls with which people are most familiar. Even in the age of Covid, it’s not as simple to make an appointment for a home visit from your primary care physician as it is to schedule a telehealth visit.

Ultimately, Medicare will pay for you to receive care at home ( home health care ) if your circumstances qualify you for such. Again, you’ll need to make sure your provider accepts Medicare assignment (if you have Original Medicare) or is within your Advantage plan’s network for your care to receive coverage. This rule of thumb applies regardless of whether the care will take place at your home.

Medicare’s guidelines for home health care dictate that the visit must be medically necessary. Thus, you must be under the care of a doctor for your condition(s) and your doctor deems certain at-home care to be a necessity.

You must qualify as homebound, meaning you have difficulty leaving your home independently (i.e., without the use of an assistive device, such as a cane). Further, your practitioner must document a face-to-face meeting with you to verify your eligibility.

An eligible individual can receive physical, speech, or occupational therapy, or intermittent care from a skilled nursing professional at home. The practitioner providing the service must accept Medicare assignment or contract with your Advantage plan.

Independence at Home

In 2011, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) launched a program called the Independence at Home Demonstration. It is a voluntary, primary care program for patients with multiple chronic conditions who are still living independently but would benefit from a doctor’s visit at home. Yet only an extremely limited number of sites across the country participate in the model.

The program has resulted in savings for CMS. While the program was supposed to end at the close of 2020, it is now extended through the end of 2023 . If further success results from this endeavor, Medicare may see changes regarding this type of care.

The Future of Home Doctor Visits on Medicare

Hesitancy to attend in-person medical appointments due to possible Covid-19 exposure increases the need for alternative options. While Medicare now includes more coverage for telehealth than ever, the same cannot be said for house calls.

When an individual needs a face-to-face appointment with their primary provider to determine necessity for home health care, it’s clear that coverage is far from comprehensive. With the need to fill this gap in coverage and the success of the Independence at Home Demonstration, Medicare will hopefully see more coverage for primary care house calls – including routine check-ups – in the future. The health of beneficiaries depends on it.

How often have you visited your doctor’s office in the past year and a half? How often have you used telehealth services? Would you ask for a home doctor visit if it were available? How would that help you?

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Yes I’d love home Dr visits, im wheelchair dependent and getting out and dressed for the appointment is an all day thing, not to mention wating to be seen is extremely painful.

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Jagger Esch

Jagger Esch is a Medicare expert and the founder, president, and CEO of MedicareFAQ. He has been working in the Medicare space for over 10 years. Jagger has a passion for sharing his expertise on Medicare to beneficiaries so they can be better prepared for health care costs after retirement. His YouTube channel features various videos that help Medicare beneficiaries discover all their options.

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Our Doctors treat patients with acute, episodic conditions (e.g. gastro, UTI, migraine, respiratory infections) that are unable to leave their home on weeknights, weekends and public holidays. If patients meet the new OHIP criteria for frail elderly or housebound, the house call is 100% covered by OHIP with a valid health card.

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Apollo HomeCare’s doctor home visit service provides expert care for you and your family that encompasses day-to-day healthcare needs as well as long term assistance.

Regular health check ups are always recommended to keep a check and maintain the best of health. Our online doctor consultation ensures you and your family members are always in the pink of health. Discover the convenience of our “Doctor at Home” service. We aim to provide doctor home visit services in Hyderabad, Bangalore, Kolkata, Chennai, Delhi, and other cities. Our team of dedicated doctors is just a call away, providing quality healthcare in the familiar surroundings of your home.

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Telehealth appointments offer an alternative to your usual at home doctor service. speak to a doctor online anytime, anywhere, how at home doctors work.

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Meet a Quebec doctor doing home visits, and how it can help overcrowding ERs

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Dr. Geneviève Dechêne loves her work and is always on the go. The family physician retired from her office practice and now devotes her time visiting patients in the comfort of their own home.

On Friday morning, after a stop at the local CLSC health clinic in Montreal’s Verdun neighbourhood, Dechêne headed out to see her first patient — a woman with terminal cancer who was recently coughing up blood.

The patient, a senior, sat on her couch as Dechêne took her blood pressure, asked questions and provided reassurances.

She could have sought help in hospital — potentially waiting hours in an overcrowded emergency room — but chose instead to call Dr. Dechêne and the care team at the Verdun CLSC.

Dechêne is part of a specialized team of 15 doctors and nurses who provide intensive palliative care to patients.

“We’re following in their home, terminal patients in their last year of life, either from cancer or heart disease or dementia,” Dechêne explained.

The program, called SIAD, has been running since 2008 and offers services 24/7.

Dechêne noted the benefits of such a system are numerous. For vulnerable patients and their families, repeated hospital visits can be taxing both emotionally and physically.

“If you’re in your last year of cancer with pains… and shortness of breath and bleeding, you will go back and forth, sometimes every week,” Dechêne said.

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By receiving care at home, patients avoid long wait times and the risk of being exposed to infections like influenza and COVID, said Melissa Leboeuf, a nurse on the SIAD team.

“It’s rewarding,” she said of being able to provide such services.

Alternative to overpacked emergency departments

The care provided by SIAD also lessens the burden on overcrowded ERs.

“Sixty-five per cent of all our patients avoid emergency rooms and hospitalizations,” Dechêne said.

“We follow here, our team, 1,500 patients. Can you imagine the number of patients not going to the hospital?”

In the last week, several Montreal-area emergency departments have been operating at 200-per cent capacity. But the problem extends beyond Montreal.

With a proven track record, Dechêne believes the SIAD program could play a crucial role in alleviating the province’s ER crisis and wants to see more teams put in place.

Patient advocate Paul Brunet agrees.

“We should apply this to everyone,” he said.

Hurdles to expanding project

Dechêne says the model is common in the rest of Canada and in Europe.

While Quebec says expanding home care is a priority, Dechêne claims the government is blocking the project’s growth.

“They don’t consider of any value the work of family physicians at home. But if they do the same work in the hospital, it’s very much valued,” she said.

In a statement, Quebec’s health ministry said it is “very favourable” to the development of SIAD.

“The Ministry of Health and Social Services has increased its support for health establishments in order to facilitate the implementation of the SIAD across Quebec,” wrote health ministry spokesperson Marie-Pierre Blier.

She added that the program developed in Verdun is an excellent model.

“Words are cheap. Actions are gold. If they wanted to implement the medical teams in the CLSCs they would have done it since 2018. They have not done it,” Dechêne said.

In May 2023, however, the government announced a new hospital-at-home initiative in which patients are hospitalized at home and monitored remotely 24/7. Dechêne said the program differs from what she does because physicians don’t do home visits, although nurses do and patient files are closed after seven days.

For terminal patients, seven days isn’t enough.

“ The patients who we are following here, we will follow them until the end, with an average of eight months of follow up,” Dechêne said.

Whereas the patients in the hospital-at-home program “are healthy patients who are going to be cured in a week.”

Dechêne and Brunet also claim that SIAD is facing hurdles from the Quebec federation of general practitioners (FMOQ).

“FMOQ General Practitioners Union does not want that,” Brunet said. “They diminished as much as they could the salary of doctors visiting patients at home and they raise the salary for family doctors becoming emergency doctors.”

The federation’s president told Global News it fully supports the idea of SIAD.

“It’s totally false that we are against it,” said Marc-André Amyot.

Amyot explained that it isn’t always feasible to implement a SIAD team depending on location and that staffing shortages are a barrier.

Meanwhile, Dechêne said she’ll continue to advocate for terminal patients provincewide to get the critical care they need in a home setting.

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GP mythbuster 71: Prioritising home visits

It is good practice for GP practices to have systems in place to triage and prioritise home visits.

Since the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, the need for a home visit should be continue to be carefully assessed. The British Medical Association (BMA) and Royal College of General Practitioners have published COVID-19 Workload Prioritisation Unified Guidance  which explains response levels. The guidance outlines types of work that should be undertaken in primary care, depending on:

• COVID-19 prevalence
• other workload
• workforce factors

The British Medical Association (BMA) has produced a COVID-19 toolkit for GPs and GP practices .

NHS England issued a patient safety alert to raise awareness of the need to have a system in place to assess:

• whether a home visit is clinically necessary , and
• the urgency of need for medical attention.

The alert states that:

"This can be undertaken, for example, by telephoning the patient or carer in advance to gather information to allow for an informed decision to be made on prioritisation according to clinical need. In some cases, the urgency of need will be so great that it will be inappropriate for the patient to wait for a GP home visit and alternative emergency care arrangements will be necessary."

"Many practices will already have systems in place to manage home visits. Where this is the case, consideration should be given to whether a review is required in light of this alert. The review should also consider whether all clinical and non-clinical staff involved in the process are aware of their responsibilities when managing requests for home visits, and if any outstanding training needs exist.”

GPs should also consider whether alternate ways of assessing the patient are appropriate. For example, video call, telephone calls or the use of virtual wards in care homes.

When delegating home visits, the provider must ensure that the Health Care Professional (HCP) has the necessary:

• competence and
• training to deliver the home visit.

The HCP should also receive appropriate supervision and support from the clinical team. Practices should ensure that the person allocated is competent to carry out home visits.

When we inspect

We will expect to see evidence of how the provider has assured themselves of the capability of non-medical HCPs, to whom they delegate home visits. This should include a process of assurance: both on initial delegation of the role and how the HCP’s capability is maintained on an ongoing basis. It should include audit of:

• their clinical decision-making
• prescribing decisions when relevant and
• a system for escalation to a senior clinician when necessary.

We use these regulations when we review if the practice is safe, effective, responsive, caring and well led. This mythbuster relates to:

• Regulation 9 (Person centred care)
• Regulation 12 (Safe care and treatment)

It is part of our key lines of enquiry (KLOEs). One of our key questions is whether services are organised so that they meet people’s needs. In particular, KLOEs:

• S2 Managing Risk
• S3 Safe care and treatment
• E3 Staff skills and knowledge
• E4 How staff, teams and services work together
• R1 Person centred care
• R3 Timely access to care and treatment
• WL8 Learning, improvement and innovation .

We may look at how the practice:

• manages and prioritises home visits
• recognises a deteriorating patient
• works with other professionals
• manages care planning, referrals and investigations.

We may also look at:

• the practice’s processes and systems to monitor patient safety through reporting patient safety incidents
• how they learn from these incidents and significant events.

This patient safety alert shows how important it is for GP practice staff to report all patient safety incidents to the National Reporting and Learning System (NRLS). Lessons can be learned across general practice.

Further information

• GP mythbuster 24: Reporting patient safety incidents to the National Reporting and Learning System (NRLS) for GP practices
• GP mythbuster 66: Advanced nurse practitioners and primary care
• GP mythbuster 100: Online and video consultations and receiving, storing and handling intimate images
• GP mythbuster 102: Pulse oximetry and monitoring vital signs outside the GP practice
• Patient Safety eForm (nrls.nhs.uk)

GP mythbusters

Snippet gp mythbusters rh.

Clearing up some common myths about our inspections of GP and out-of-hours services and sharing agreed guidance to best practice.

See all issues:

• GP mythbusters: listed by key question
• GP mythbusters: full list
• GP mythbusters: recently updated

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Health services

Although your GP doesn’t need to be your first point of contact if you're feeling unwell, everyone should be registered with a GP. If you're not, you should register with a practice as soon as possible, even if you don't currently have any health problems.

What does a GP do?

What services should i look for in a gp surgery, how do i register with a gp surgery, what if i'm too ill to visit my gp, what if i'm not registered with a gp or i'm away from home, what support can i get if i have a long-term condition.

Your General Practitioner (GP) can give you medical advice, treatment and prescribe medication.

Your GP can also refer you to other healthcare professionals to diagnose or treat specific aspects of your condition. For example, they may refer you to a chiropodist, for a hearing test, or to your local falls prevention service. These other health professionals may visit you at home or hold clinics at a local practice, health centre or hospital.

Your GP practice must allocate everyone a named, accountable GP. This GP will oversee your care and take responsibility for evaluating your current physical and psychological needs. Though this doesn’t mean the named GP is the only doctor at your practice who will or can provide care.

If you're joining a new surgery, ask about the availability of services that may be important to you, such as:

• how the appointment system works
• how far in advance you can book a non-urgent appointment
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• staff who speak languages other than English.

Some surgeries offer a 24-hour online service, which you can use to book appointments with a GP of your choice, cancel appointments, order repeat prescriptions and view your summary care record. Speak to the receptionist to find out what online services your GP surgery offers and how to register for online access.

If you have difficulty finding a practice with space for new patients, contact NHS England – it's their responsibility to find a GP practice for you.

Find out more about online services on the NHS website

You can register with a GP surgery over the phone, online or in person.

You don't need proof of ID to register with a GP, but you may find it helpful to have your passport or birth certificate handy while you're filling in your details.

Find out more about registering with a GP on the NHS website

If you can't visit your GP surgery for medical reasons, you can ask your GP to make a home visit. If possible, try to call your GP in the morning if you think you'll need a visit the same day. Your GP surgery should have accessible information explaining how to request a home visit.

If you need to see your GP but can't make it into the surgery, they must offer a home visit instead. They should factor in how urgent your condition is when arranging a home visit.

Your GP might also be able to give you advice through a telephone or video consultation as an alternative.

You should always be able to see a GP if you need urgent attention. If you become ill while you're away from home or you haven't registered with a GP, you should contact the nearest surgery and ask them to see you.

If you'll be living away from your usual address for up to 3 months, you can register as a temporary patient at a local practice. You'll still be able to remain registered as a patient with the GP where you normally live.

If you have a long-term condition, your GP should help you understand and manage your own care. This may include drawing up a care plan to help you manage your condition on a day-to-day basis and recognise symptoms that you should report to your GP.

It may also include creating an 'information prescription'. This is a collection of information that your GP thinks is helpful to you at that time and will help you understand your condition, as well as ways to prevent any further complications. This can be done with the help of the NHS website, which helps you find reliable sources of information about your condition.

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NHS services factsheet (828 KB)

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Last updated: Apr 08 2024

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Find out more about your rights and responsibilities as a patient in the NHS Constitution.

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New mother says JBS gave her filthy room to pump milk, fired her for doctor visits

A former Iowa slaughterhouse worker who'd already lost one child says she was penalized and fired by her employer for pumping milk and going to medical appointments to protect her next one.

Plaintiff Star Rice sued multinational pork producer JBS in Wapello County in January, accusing the company of pregnancy and gender discrimination and violations of the federal Family Medical Leave Act and Fair Labor Standards Act. JBS has since moved the case to federal court, and in court filings has denied wrongdoing. An attorney for JBS did not respond to messages seeking comment.

Attorney Jacquelyn Judickas, representing Rice, said in a statement that pregnant women and nursing mothers are entitled to "dignity and respect" from their employers.

“That means not penalizing individuals for going to pregnancy-related doctor appointments and providing a safe space to pump breast milk," Judickas said. "Women cannot be required to make decisions at the expense of their child’s health in order to keep their jobs. Ms. Rice is committed to both caring for her children and being a working member of society.”

Pregnant worker penalized for approved absences

According to her complaint, Star began working on the production lines at JBS' Ottumwa pork plant in early 2020, and later that year learned she was pregnant.

Related: As Tyson Foods closes Perry plant, are other Iowa facilities headed to the chopping block?

Rice's pregnancy was deemed high-risk by doctors, leading to numerous medical appointments. Her suit says she sought, and obtained, approval from JBS for those work absences, only to learn later they were still being counted against her in a "points" system the company used to track worker absences.

Rice gave birth in June 2021 and returned to work the following month, but continued to have medical appointments related to her newborn. At one point, she alleges, JBS attempted to fire her because she had accrued too many absence points, even though the absences were approved for legitimate medical needs.

Rice says that when she protested her firing, JBS reinstated her but did not remove the absence points from her attendance records.

New mother says she pumped milk in filthy room

Rice says she returned to work with a doctor's note seeking accommodations to pump breast milk while at work. According to the U.S. Department of Labor , "Most nursing employees have the right to reasonable break time and a place, other than a bathroom, that is shielded from view to express breast milk while at work" for up to one year after giving birth.

Instead, Rice claims in her suit, she was offered the use of "an old room that smelled of rotten meat, with dirty cement floors, tacky traps for insects, and a semi-functional sink." The room also was not private, she says, with other employees coming and going and, on one occasion, pulling aside the shower curtain that was supposed to shield her from view.

Similar: Female doctors allege they were paid less than men, hounded into leaving Des Moines lab

She also got pushback for the amount of time she was taking to pump, she alleges. Supervisor Victor Rodriquez, who is named as a defendant, allegedly sought to obtain a copy of her medical file from the company's human resources office and tried to get her to limit her pumping breaks to 15 minutes instead of 30, the suit says. It notes that Rice was required to wear several layers of protective equipment to work on the production line, adding considerably to the time it took to disrobe herself to pump. Nonetheless, she says, she was written up for taking too long to pump in March 2022.

Rice claims she made multiple complaints to human resources about the condition of the lactation space and the harassment she was getting from peers and managers, but that the company took no steps to correct the issues.

'Can't you just feed your baby when you get home?'

Another supervisor named in the lawsuit, Erika Kemp, allegedly both ignored and participated in the harassment against Rice. At one point, Rice says in her suit, Kemp told her “you can either put up with it or you can leave.” Kemp also repeatedly made comments to the effect of "can’t you just feed your baby when you get home?" Rice claims.

More: Walmart settles Ottumwa worker's gender discrimination complaint for $60,000

In fact, Rice says, she had even more cause than most parents to do everything she could to pump milk to ensure her child was healthy.

"Defendants knew that Ms. Rice's first child had died from Sudden Infant Death Syndrome and that Ms. Rice was desperately trying to do everything she could to help ensure good health for her newborn child, including feeding her child with breastmilk," she says in the complaint.

Finally, in April 2022, Rice was told upon arriving at work that she was being terminated, again due to having accrued too many attendance points, the suit says. These points again included her approved time off for medical appointments, Rice says.

This article has been edited to correct the spelling of Jacquelyn Judickas' name.

William Morris covers courts for the Des Moines Register. He can be contacted at  [email protected]  or 715-573-8166 .

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Oncologists' meetings with drug reps don't help cancer patients live longer

Sydney Lupkin

Drug companies often do one-on-one outreach to doctors. A new study finds these meetings with drug reps lead to more prescriptions for cancer patients, but not longer survival. Chris Hondros/Getty Images hide caption

Drug companies often do one-on-one outreach to doctors. A new study finds these meetings with drug reps lead to more prescriptions for cancer patients, but not longer survival.

Pharmaceutical company reps have been visiting doctors for decades to tell them about the latest drugs. But how does the practice affect patients? A group of economists tried to answer that question.

When drug company reps visit doctors, it usually includes lunch or dinner and a conversation about a new drug. These direct-to-physician marketing interactions are tracked as payments in a public database, and a new study shows the meetings work. That is, doctors prescribe about five percent more oncology drugs following a visit from a pharmaceutical representative, according to the new study published by the National Bureau of Economic Research this month.

But the researchers also found that the practice doesn't make cancer patients live longer.

"It does not seem that this payment induces physicians to switch to drugs with a mortality benefit relative to the drug the patient would have gotten otherwise," says study author Colleen Carey , an assistant professor of economics and public policy at Cornell University.

For their research, she and her colleagues used Medicare claims data and the Open Payments database , which tracks drug company payments to doctors.

While the patients being prescribed these new cancer drugs didn't live longer, Carey also points out that they didn't live shorter lives either. It was about equal.

The pharmaceutical industry trade group, which is known as PhRMA, has a code of conduct for how sales reps should interact with doctors. The code was most recently updated in 2022, says Jocelyn Ulrich, the group's vice president of policy and research .

"We're ensuring that there is a constant attention from the industry and ensuring that these are very meaningful and important interactions and that they're compliant," she explains.

The code says that if drug reps are buying doctors a meal, it must be modest and can't be part of an entertainment or recreational event. The goal should be education.

Ulrich also points out that cancer deaths in the U.S. have declined by 33 percent since the 1990s , and new medicines are a part of that.