Characteristics of an Effective Home Health Care Program

• available around the clock, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week?

• capable of providing a rapid response?

• supported by a medical staff available and accessible around the clock?

• able to spend time flexibly with the patient and social network?

• able to remain involved throughout a crisis until it is resolved?

• competent to administer and supervise medication and treatments?

• able to serve as gatekeeper to acute inpatient care?

• able to connect patients with further care and services as needed?

• to address the social issues surrounding the person's condition?

• to provide practical solutions for problems?

• to serve as a information resource and support structure for caregivers?

• to provide counselling?