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Home Health Care vs. Hospital Care for Children: Which Is Right for Your Family?
Posted by PHC | Blog
If your child has specialized health needs, you are not alone. According to data from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), there are more than three million children who have been diagnosed with a medical disability in the United States. You should have access to all available resources to get the right care for your medically vulnerable child.
This raises an important question: Is home health care or hospital care the better option for my child? The short answer is that it depends on your child’s specific health needs. Here, our Pennsylvania pediatric care professionals highlight key considerations for choosing the right option for your child: home health care or hospital care.
Consideration #1: Medical Complexity (Level of Care Required)
Your child’s medical needs are always the top priority. For this reason, the severity of a child’s condition is a primary factor in determining whether home health care is a viable alternative to hospital care. Hospital care may be necessary for acute, unstable, or complex medical needs that require constant monitoring, specialized equipment, or immediate (emergency) intervention.
In contrast, home health care may be appropriate for children with chronic, stable conditions who can safely receive treatments such as therapy, medication management, or skilled nursing at home.
Consideration #2: Emotional/Psychological Impact on the Child
Your child’s emotional well-being matters. The reality is that getting care in a hospital is generally far more disruptive to his or her life than getting care at home. That is a relevant consideration. Familiar surroundings can reduce stress and anxiety in children.
Home care allows a child to stay in a comfortable, known environment with family nearby, which can promote emotional well-being. It can also make it easier for your child to live the highest quality of life.
Consideration #3: Family Lifestyle, Schedule, and Support System
Another consideration is the impact on your family and your child. Caring for a child at home requires time, training, and often adjustments to a family’s daily routine. Parents may need to take on caregiving roles or coordinate care with professionals, which can be both rewarding and tiring.
Hospital care can sometimes ease the burden, but it can also be even more disruptive. For that reason, many families who opt for home care can benefit from professional in-home pediatric support.
You Do Not Have to Make the Decision Alone
You do not have to decide between home health care and hospital care alone. Guidance and support are available. By working closely with your child’s doctor, a home care team, and a trusted pediatric provider, you can make an informed choice that is truly best for your child.
We Provide Personalized Home Pediatric Care in Southeastern Pennsylvania
At Personal Health Care, our pediatric care professionals are skilled, knowledgeable, and compassionate. We are committed to providing the highest level of pediatric home health care to medically vulnerable children. Call us at (610) 933-6130 for a free in-home health care assessment.
With an office in Phoenixville, we provide home pediatric care to children throughout Southeastern Pennsylvania, including in Montgomery County and Delaware County.