Abstract
BackgroundThe SOS-doctors are a network of physicians who perform house-call visits in the areas of Attica and Thessaloniki, Greece.MethodsPatients requesting medical services by the SOS doctors during the period 1/1/2005 – 31/12/2015 were eligible for inclusion in this retrospective analysis.ResultsDuring this period 335, 212 home visits were performed. Females used this service more frequently compared to males (60.5% versus 39.5%). Among the age-groups, patients aged over 75 years made 56.6% of all house calls. Fewer phone requests were recorded during autumn than in winter (21.1% versus 29.1%). Infections were the most common cause of house-visits (29%), followed by cardiovascular diseases (10.3%), musculoskeletal (9.1%), gastrointestinal (6.3%) and neurological disorders (3.7%). An increasing demand for radiology at home was observed, starting at 352 calls in 2009 and reaching 2230 in 2015. Finally, 9.2% of patients were advised to be admitted into a hospital.ConclusionA shift towards older age, but not the oldest old (> 90 years), and acute conditions was observed during the study period. The study confirms that home visits retain a significant role in the modern health care systems.
Highlights
The SOS-doctors are a network of physicians who perform house-call visits in the areas of Attica and Thessaloniki, Greece
A shift towards older age, but not the oldest old (> 90 years), and acute conditions was observed during the study period
The study confirms that home visits retain a significant role in the modern health care systems
Summary
The SOS-doctors are a network of physicians who perform house-call visits in the areas of Attica and Thessaloniki, Greece. Differences in practice among geographical areas and health systems have been described [1], a continuous decline in home visits was observed throughout the 20th century [2]. The interest was renowned in the 21st century and will probably increase further due to disability and frailty of the aging population, increased pressure on health care economics, as well as advances in healthcare technology that created unprecedented opportunities to Modern home visits require the availability of both physicians and paramedical staff. A home visit can enhance the relationship between a physician and the patient, and enable the physician’s understanding of the patient’s environment and support systems [2]
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