Canary Islands' New Regulation for Hospitalization at Home

Overview

The Canary Islands government has approved a new regulation to establish the 'Medical Officer for Hospitalization at Home' as a formal category within the regional health service. This move aims to improve patient care by expanding specialized hospital-level treatment into the patient's home, a practice increasingly valued for its benefits to quality of life and healthcare efficiency.

Key Aspects of the Regulation

• Medical professionals will evaluate and decide on patient admissions for hospital care at home.
• They will manage and coordinate these services.
• Provide direct medical assistance in patients' residences, both scheduled and emergency.

Purpose and Benefits

"This model acts as a bridge between primary care and full hospital stays, reducing unnecessary hospital admissions while maintaining high standards of clinical care."

• Reduces unnecessary hospital admissions
• Maintains high standards of clinical care
• Offers a patient-centered, cost-effective healthcare approach

Organizational Impact

• Creation of specialized teams within hospitals dedicated to providing this service.
• Clearer job roles, requirements, and career pathways for medical staff.
• Emphasizes fixed employment conditions.
• Ensures qualified medical staff can join these innovative teams.

Rationale and Goals

This development responds to both technological advances and a growing advocacy for patient-centered, cost-effective healthcare.

"By formalizing this role, the Canary Islands aim to optimize resource use and ensure consistent access to sophisticated healthcare solutions outside traditional hospital settings, ultimately benefiting patients and easing the burden on hospitals."

• Optimal resource utilization
• Consistent access to healthcare outside traditional settings
• Benefits for patients and hospitals