Cleveland Clinic Launches Hospital Care At Home Program in Northeast Ohio
CLEVELAND — In a groundbreaking move toward patient-centered health care, Cleveland Clinic has introduced its Hospital Care At Home program in Northeast Ohio, starting on Cleveland’s west side. This innovative initiative allows eligible patients to receive hospital-level care in the comfort of their own homes, offering a fresh alternative to traditional inpatient treatment.
The program, which initially launched in Florida in 2023, has already benefited over 4,000 patients and demonstrated reduced hospital readmission rates. Now, residents within a 25-mile radius of Cleveland Clinic Fairview or Avon hospitals can take advantage of this service if they meet specific medical criteria.
How It Works
Patients who qualify for Hospital Care At Home must be evaluated in the emergency department or an inpatient unit. If approved, they can recover at home while receiving comprehensive care comparable to a hospital stay. Conditions treated through the program include chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), sepsis, cellulitis, pneumonia, asthma, and certain post-operative colorectal procedures.
To ensure seamless care, patients are equipped with essential tools, including a tablet for virtual video visits, a direct-connect phone line to their care team, a personal emergency response bracelet, devices to monitor vital signs, and a backup power supply. These tools enable continuous monitoring through the Clinically Integrated Virtual Command Center (CIViC), a virtual hub developed for the program.
CIViC, initially created for the Florida program, is now being expanded to support Ohio. The virtual team includes physicians, advanced practice providers, pharmacists, coordinators, and nurses who work collaboratively to oversee patient care. Additionally, in-person services such as blood draws, mobile imaging, and IV therapies are provided by health care professionals who visit patients regularly.
Patient-Centered Innovation
Dr. Neil P. Smith, president of Cleveland Clinic’s West Submarket, emphasized the importance of offering patients flexible care options. “Giving patients the choice to recover in the setting that best meets their individual needs is essential,” he said. “Expanding Hospital Care At Home to Ohio underscores our commitment to patient-centered care and innovation.”
Dr. Jorge A. Guzman, executive vice president and president of Cleveland Clinic’s Northeast Ohio Market, echoed this sentiment, noting that healing at home can significantly support recovery for many patients. “Hospital Care At Home is part of our ongoing commitment to evolving the way we deliver care,” he said. “We are proud to bring this innovative model to Ohio and offer patients another option for high-quality care.”
A Growing Trend
The Hospital Care At Home program reflects a broader trend in health care toward personalized, flexible treatment solutions. By reducing the need for prolonged hospital stays, the program not only enhances patient comfort but also alleviates strain on hospital resources.
For Northeast Ohio residents, this initiative represents a new chapter in accessible, high-quality health care. As Cleveland Clinic continues to pioneer innovative care models, patients can look forward to more options that prioritize their well-being and recovery.
— Reported by Nexio News
