Home visit for the evaluation and management of an established patient, which requires at least 2 of these 3 key components: A problem focused interval history; A problem focused examination; Straightforward medical decision making. Counseling and/or coor
CPT4 code
Name of the Procedure:
Home Visit for the Evaluation and Management of an Established Patient
Common name(s): House call, Home medical visit
Technical term: Home visit for evaluation and management (E&M) of an established patient
Summary
A healthcare professional visits a patient's home to assess and manage their medical condition. This visit involves taking a focused history, conducting a targeted physical examination, and making straightforward medical decisions regarding the patient's current health status.
Purpose
This procedure addresses ongoing health issues in patients who have difficulty visiting a medical facility due to immobility, chronic illness, or other health constraints. The goal is to provide continuous medical care and management in the comfortable setting of the patient's home.
Indications
- Chronic conditions that require regular monitoring
- Mobility issues preventing clinic visits
- Recent surgery or hospitalization requiring follow-up care
- Acute health concerns that do not necessitate an emergency room visit
Preparation
- Ensure a list of current medications and previous medical history is available.
- The home environment should be prepared with a clean and quiet area for the assessment.
Procedure Description
- The healthcare provider travels to the patient's home.
- Upon arrival, the provider reviews the patient's medical history and current medications.
- A problem-focused interval history is taken, concentrating on specific symptoms or issues.
- A problem-focused physical examination is conducted.
- Straightforward medical decision-making occurs, considering the patient's history, examination findings, and current health status.
- Counseling and coordination with other healthcare providers may be provided as needed.
Duration
Typically, a home visit lasts about 30 minutes to 1 hour.
Setting
The procedure is performed in the patient's home.
Personnel
- Primary Care Physician (PCP) or Nurse Practitioner (NP)
- Sometimes accompanied by a nurse or medical assistant
Risks and Complications
- Minimal risks involved as it's a non-invasive procedure.
- Potential for an incomplete assessment if the home environment is not conducive to an examination.
- Possible delays in emergency intervention if required.
Benefits
- Provides access to care for patients with mobility issues or chronic illnesses.
- Allows for a more comprehensive evaluation by observing the patient's home environment.
- Immediate and personalized medical attention.
Recovery
- No specific recovery needed as this is a non-invasive procedure.
- Patients may need to follow specific care instructions provided by the healthcare professional.
- Follow-up appointments may be scheduled if further evaluation or treatment is necessary.
Alternatives
- Telehealth visits, with limited physical examination capabilities
- Visits to a primary care clinic or urgent care center
- Home visits by community health workers or nurse case managers
Patient Experience
- Patients may feel more relaxed and comfortable being assessed in their own home.
- There may be minimal discomfort during physical examinations.
- Stress is reduced as patients avoid traveling to medical facilities.