The Hospital at Home (HAHP) program, initiated by Vancouver Coastal Health (VCH) in 2024, has begun offering innovative care solutions for pre- and post-surgery patients. This initiative allows patients to recover in the comfort of their own homes, alleviating the burden on the hospital system while improving patient satisfaction.
Lulu Leathley, who underwent surgery for bowel cancer, praised the program for its impact on her recovery. Just two weeks post-surgery, Leathley expressed gratitude for being able to celebrate Christmas at home with her family. “I was able to be at home and have Christmas with my family,” she told CityNews.
The HAHP program has expanded significantly in its first year, now encompassing patients like Leathley who are located near the hospital. According to Pam Papp, director of operations at Vancouver General Hospital, patients receive regular check-ins from nurses and doctors throughout the day. “If there are any concerns, the nurses will know about it,” Papp stated.
Patients can be recommended for the program by their doctors, granting them access to nursing support around the clock, both virtually and via phone. VCH reports that the program has successfully treated approximately 600 patients and has opened up around 6,000 hospital bed days, demonstrating its effectiveness in managing patient care while reducing hospital congestion.
The BC Nurses Union has noted that patient satisfaction rates are generally very high for these types of programs. Union President Adriane Gear commented on the cautious optimism surrounding the expansion of HAHP. “This does seem like a bold expansion, and I would say a guarded optimism around it,” Gear remarked, indicating a positive reception among healthcare professionals.
The initiative has garnered bipartisan support, with political figures recognizing its potential benefits. Anna Kindy, the health critic for the British Columbia Conservative Party, reflected on the program’s merits, stating, “I think it’s a good idea. If it’s a low acuity surgery or postoperatively they are stable, patients are often better at home.”
As the Hospital at Home program continues to evolve, it is poised to redefine recovery for many patients in Vancouver, offering a promising alternative that blends modern healthcare with the comfort of home.
