Region Norrbotten is planning to introduce a new healthcare model called 'Sjukhus hemma' (Hospital at Home), according to an announcement from the regional government. The initiative aims to provide acute medical care to patients in their own homes instead of requiring hospital admission. The program is designed to increase healthcare accessibility, free up hospital beds, and provide safer care particularly for elderly and fragile patients.
Key healthcare professionals involved include doctor Tomasz Wróblewski and unit manager Kajsa Hedlund, who see multiple benefits in the approach. Lena Ylipää, deputy operations manager for internal medicine at Sunderby Hospital, stated that this care model is expected to grow in Sweden. The Hospital at Home concept, already established in countries like the USA, Australia, and the UK, offers benefits including lower infection risk, reduced fall risk, and better appetite and mobility in home environments.
According to Kajsa Hedlund, many patients feel safer at home and avoid the risk of infection from other patients in hospital settings.