Home Hospitalization (HAD), also known as Hospitalization at Home, enables eligible patients to receive hospital-level care in the comfort of their own home, avoiding unnecessary hospital stays when clinically appropriate.
Unlike traditional hospital or clinic settings with constant on-site staff, HAD coordinates a comprehensive care protocol involving your attending physician, independent healthcare professionals, pharmacies, home services, and social support tailored to your needs. Here's a detailed look at how HAD operates and who can benefit.
HAD allows patients to return home after a hospital stay—or even bypass hospitalization altogether—and receive essential medical and paramedical care. This includes one-time treatments, post-acute rehabilitation for conditions like heart disease, orthopedic issues, or cancer therapies.
Once your doctor approves HAD, the hospital care team visits your home to evaluate feasibility and outline the necessary setup for the prescribed care plan. A multidisciplinary team—including nurses, physiotherapists, social workers, psychologists, and dietitians—delivers personalized care through an authorized HAD provider. All required equipment and supplies are provided by the hospital or an external service, while medications arrive via the HAD facility's pharmacy or your local pharmacist. For emergencies, HAD ensures 24/7 access to a nurse hotline and alert protocols for you and your caregivers.
HAD is typically time-limited but can be extended based on your health progress and care requirements. Coverage mirrors traditional hospitalization, fully supported by health insurance and supplemental plans.
HAD is available to individuals of any age whose medical condition warrants it and who consent to home-based care, including palliative support. It's prescribed by a hospital doctor or your primary physician, who coordinates the care plan with the hospital team.
Eligibility requires three key clinical and practical conditions:
Administrative factors also apply: You must live in an area served by an HAD provider with available capacity.
