The patient's condition relative to the bacterial meningitis - all of the following:
(1) The patient has received inpatient antibiotic therapy for >= 6 days.
(2) The patient has been afebrile for at least 24-48 hours prior to discharge.
(3) The patient shows no significant neurologic dysfunction.
(4) There are no focal neurologic findings.
(5) There is no seizure activity.
The patient's general condition - all of the following:
(1) The patient is clinically stable or improving.
(2) The patient is able to take fluids by mouth.
(3) If intravenous administration is needed, then reliable intravenous access is available.
The health care delivery system has all of the following:
(1) There is access to a provider who will administer the antibiotic therapy.
(2) A physician is available daily.
(3) There is a plan for routine care and monitoring.
(4) There is a plan if an emergency occurs, including reasonable access to emergency medical services.
(5) The patient and support group (family, friends, etc.) have been informed about the program and can be expected to be compliant.
(6) The home environment has access to a telephone, utilities, food and refrigerator.
