House calls have reemerged as a valuable tool in healthcare, offering patients personalized and convenient care in the comfort of their own homes. Physicians should be aware of the unique set of challenges and risks associated with house calls that must be managed effectively to ensure the safety of both patients and healthcare providers.
By implementing best practices in risk management and patient safety, healthcare professionals can navigate these challenges and deliver high-quality care during house calls.
Before embarking on a house call, it is essential to conduct a comprehensive risk assessment. This assessment should include evaluating the patient's medical condition, the location of the home visit, and any potential hazards that may be present in the patient's home. By identifying and addressing potential risks upfront, healthcare providers can better prepare for any unforeseen circumstances that may arise during the visit.
Communication with the patient is key in ensuring a successful house call. Prior to the visit, healthcare providers should engage in open dialogue with the patient to gather their medical history, current symptoms, and any specific concerns they may have. This important information can help providers tailor their approach and ensure they have the necessary equipment and medications on hand to provide appropriate care during the visit.¹
To enhance safety during house calls, it is advisable to bring a colleague or chaperone. An extra set of eyes and hands can assist with patient care and help mitigate potential risks that may arise. Additionally, having a colleague present can provide added security and support in case of emergencies, ensuring a prompt and effective response to any unforeseen situations.1,2
Proper documentation is essential in ensuring continuity of care and patient safety during house calls. Healthcare providers should maintain thorough and accurate records of the visit, including the patient's medical history, current symptoms, care provided, and any follow-up recommendations. This documentation not only helps in providing comprehensive care but also serves as a valuable resource for future visits or consultations with other healthcare providers.³
Infection control is paramount during house calls, as the home environment may present additional risks for the spread of infectious diseases. Healthcare providers should adhere to strict infection control protocols, including proper hand hygiene practices, the use of personal protective equipment, and the disinfection of equipment and surfaces that come in contact with the patient. By following these protocols, providers can prevent the spread of infections and maintain a safe environment for them and their patients.4
Planning for emergencies is crucial when conducting house calls. Healthcare providers should familiarize themselves with the location of the nearest hospital or urgent care facility, have emergency contact information readily available, and be prepared to administer basic life support if needed. By having a well-defined emergency plan, providers can respond quickly and effectively to any unexpected situations that may arise during the visit.1-3
Summary of Best Practices
- Conduct a thorough risk assessment before making house calls to identify and address potential risks upfront.
- Communicate effectively with the patient to gather important information about their medical history, current symptoms, and concerns.
- Bring a colleague or chaperone to house calls to assist with patient care and provide added security in case of emergencies.
- Maintain thorough and accurate documentation of the visit, including the patient's medical history, care provided, and follow-up recommendations.
- Adhere to strict infection control protocols, including proper hand hygiene, use of personal protective equipment, and disinfection of equipment and surfaces.
- Have a well-defined emergency plan, including knowing the location of the nearest hospital, having emergency contact information readily available, and being prepared to administer basic life support if needed.
House calls offer a unique opportunity to deliver personalized and convenient care to patients in their own homes. Implementing best practices in risk management and patient safety during house calls helps to protect patients and healthcare providers and ensure their well-being. By conducting thorough risk assessments, communicating effectively with patients, bringing support personnel, maintaining proper documentation, following infection control protocols, and having a plan for emergencies, healthcare providers can navigate the challenges of house calls with confidence and provide exceptional care to their patients.
Monica Ludwick, Pharm. D., is a Senior Risk Management and Patient Safety Specialist. Questions or comments related to this article should be directed to MLudwick@CAPphysicians.com.
¹Cornwell, Thomas, and Brianna Plencner. “House Calls: Providing Care Beyond the Office Walls.” Family Practice Management 28, no. 3 (May/June 2021): 22A–22G. https://www.aafp.org/pubs/fpm/issues/2021/0500/oa2.html. (August 21, 2025)
²American Academy of Family Physicians. (2018). House calls: A valuable service in today's healthcare landscape. Retrieved from https://www.aafp.org/news/practice-professional-issues/20180912housecal… (August 21, 2025)
³Joint Commission. (2019). Providing care in the home. Retrieved from https://www.jointcommission.org/-/media/tjc/documents/resources/patient… (August 18, 2025)
4Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021). Infection control guidance for healthcare professionals about coronavirus (COVID-19). Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/hcp/infection-control.html (August 18, 2025)