PATIENTS AND CARERS SATISFACTION WITH HOSPITAL-IN-THE-HOME CARE

Aim: Hospital-in-the-Home Units (HHUs) offer acute care, such as the a dministration of intravenous antibiotic therapy, to appropriate and co nsenting patients in their homes, This study sought to determine the s atisfaction of a group of patients and carers to a hospital in the hom e program in Victoria, Australia. Method: A descriptive survey based o n a telephone administered structured interview was conducted, Patient s admitted to the HHU from December 1994 until the end of June 1995, a nd their nominated carers, were approached for their participation 2-3 weeks after their discharge. Results: Patients: Surveys were complete d for 67 of a total 79 patients (84.8%), A preference for the convenie nce and comfort of home was the commonest reason cited for agreeing to enter the HHU (45 or 67.2%), Almost all respondents (66) would use th e service again if the opportunity arose, Benefits associated with the home environment were the commonest perceived advantages of HHU care (42, 62.3%), Carers: Sixty-five carers from a possible 79 were intervi ewed, Most carers were women (spouses or mothers), and gave their occu pation as home carer or retired, Sixty-two carers were confident in th eir role in the HHU. A similar number stated that they would act as ca rers again, and 61 would recommend the role to others. Conclusion: Thi s study demonstrates that patient and carer preference will act as an incentive in the development and acceptance of HHU care. Copyright (C) 1996 Elsevier Science Ltd.