The Hospital in the Home program has been a huge relief for patients such as disability employment support specialist Quinn Bolger-Hopkins.
At eight weeks pregnant, Quinn was hospitalised with Hyperemesis Gravidum - a severe form of ‘morning sickness’.
Quinn had experienced three days of uncontrolled vomiting and was unable to hold down solids or liquids, resulting in rapid weight-loss and severe dehydration.
She was also struggling with the hospital environment and was considering discharging against medical advice.
‘I was probably the lowest and most frightened I had ever felt,’ she said. ‘I have a phobia around hospitals. I lost my parents at a young age to cancer, so hospitals are not a great place for me.’
Quinn was identified by Cairns Hospital staff as suitable for Hospital in the Home (HITH).
HITH-eligible patients can receive their treatment at home with up to two visits a day, as well as 24/7 phone support throughout their admission.
Care is coordinated across multiple hospital departments, depending on the patient’s needs.
‘For the right patients, hospital-equivalent care can be delivered safely in the patient’s own home,’ said HITH Senior Medical Officer Dr Carmon Guy.
‘The HITH service is hugely beneficial, reducing the impact on a busy hospital while supporting a patient’s desire to be cared for in a home environment.’
As Quinn's pregnancy has progressed, she has needed ongoing HITH support for recurrent bouts of Hyperemesis Gravidarum.
For each HITH admission she received intravenous medications and fluids, along with a general health assessment up to twice a day.
‘It's basically like you are in a hospital and you have everything that a hospital patient gets - medications delivered to you, your doctor on the phone and nurses coming to you,’ said Quinn.
‘I was born and raised in America. This is the highest level of care I have ever received, and it cost me nothing. That's incredible to me.
‘The staff are a really lovely, respectful team that works cohesively. You never feel like a number or a task and it is very person-centred care. I can't speak highly enough of it.’