Discover How Hackensack Meridian Health’s Expanded Hospital-at-Home Program is Revolutionizing Patient Care

The CMS Acute Hospital Care at Home waiver allows hospitals to provide inpatient-level care in patients’ homes, and while it’s currently set to expire on September 30, some health systems are moving forward. For instance, Hackensack Meridian Health in New Jersey is expanding its Hospital From Home program to include two new locations: Ocean University Medical Center in Brick and Southern Ocean Medical Center in Stafford Township. This adds to their existing program already in place at Hackensack University Medical Center, JFK University Medical Center, and Jersey Shore University Medical Center.

Launched in April 2024 after a successful pilot program, Hospital From Home has already cared for over 1,000 patients, with plans for further expansion across the network. The program is backed by a partnership with Medically Home, a company under DispatchHealth.

Dr. Pippa Shulman, chief medical officer of DispatchHealth, highlights the significance of this model. “Hospital care in the home is a key access point for patients and provides unique benefits for care coordination and patient outcomes.”

Through this program, patients receive round-the-clock monitoring from a physician-led team while also getting visits from nurses at home. This includes a range of services: IV antibiotics, lab tests, various therapies, and nutritional support.

The rise of at-home healthcare reflects broader trends in the industry. According to a recent survey by the American Hospital Association, around 64% of hospitals are exploring similar initiatives. The comfort and personalized care that comes with being treated at home resonate with many patients.

As we look at the future of healthcare, the home remains a vital setting for patient care. With advancements in technology and a growing acceptance of telemedicine, it’s clear that home-based healthcare is here to stay.



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