As part of the Home First Initiative, the Hospital to Home Program was developed collaboratively by the Nipissing Wellness Ontario Health Team, Closing the Gap Healthcare, and the North Bay Regional Health Centre to ensure seamless transitions for patients and their families moving from hospital care to their home environment. The program aims to improve patient outcomes, reduce hospital readmissions, and enhance the overall care experience for patients/families/caregivers.
What is the H2H Program?
Hospital to Home is a 16-week program that helps patients who no longer need hospital care, but still need some extra support. It helps them as they move from the hospital to their home or another place for care. The program is for patients who need short-term home care to get better from a temporary health problem. By the end of the program, they should be able to take care of themselves as much as possible.
Have Questions?
Talk to your Hospital to Home Coordinator. They will answer your questions and help you understand the services available to you.
Home First Program Coordinator – [705] 474-8600 ext. 3265
Frequently Asked Questions
How will this program help me go home from the hospital?
- When you are in the Hospital:
- Your H2H Care Coordinator will meet with you, your family/caregiver and the service provider to make a care plan that will meet your needs.
- Each care plan is made to meet each patient’s individual needs.
- They will arrange services like nursing, therapy, or personal support to help you at home.
2. When you are at Home:
- After you go home, your H2H Care Coordinator will call you to check how you are doing.
- Your services may change as you get better and become more independent.
What services can I get?
The H2H program can give you:
- Nursing care for things like wounds or medicine.
- Help with bathing, dressing, and other daily tasks.
- Therapy like physiotherapy to help you get stronger.
- Support to connect with programs like Meals on Wheels.
- Transportation to appointments, if needed.
- Equipment and supplies you need to recover.
Who is eligible for the Hospital to Home Program?
Starting early 2025, eligible community members may receive home care services through the Hospital to Home Program. To qualify for these services, you must:
- Be 18 years old or older
- Be covered under OHIP
- Live in the district of Nipissing
- Be able to take care of themselves as much as possible at home after finishing the program.
Do I have to pay for these services?
- In-home services, like nursing and therapy, are free.
- Some programs in the community, like meal delivery, may cost a small fee. Your H2H Care Coordinator can explain this.
Why is going home better than staying in the hospital?
- You can recover in your own home where you feel safe and comfortable.
- You will stay active and avoid losing strength from being in bed too long.
- Care will come to you at home, so no travel required on your part.
- Your family and friends can visit anytime without hospital rules or extra costs.
What happens after the program ends?
- If you still need care, your H2H Care Coordinator will connect you with regular home care services.
- They will make sure you have the right support to keep getting better.