Most people would rather recover in the comfort of their own home than stay in the hospital. A new program launched in December helps make that possible while still ensuring patients receive the care and monitoring they need.

The Post-Acute Mobile Integrated Health Program offers up to three home visits from a community paramedic for eligible Emergency Department patients. This approach allows some patients to return home safely instead of being admitted to the hospital.

Adult patients seen in the Nebraska Medical Center Emergency Department who live in select zip codes may qualify. If they enroll, they receive their first home visit within 24 to 48 hours after discharge. 

During these visits, the community paramedic can provide a range of services designed to support recovery and prevent complications. Visits may include blood draws, EKGs, telehealth appointments with an emergency medicine physician, remote patient monitoring and coordination with the patient’s primary care provider. The paramedic can also assess symptoms, answer questions and help ensure patients are following their care plan.

The program aims to prevent one to two hospital admissions each day by addressing patient needs early and providing additional support at home.

“This gives patients the personal touch of a house call,” says Community Paramedic Reba Graf. “We’re delivering care at home while using technology to keep patients connected.”

Future plans include expanding the program to certain hospitalized patients after discharge.