What is homecare? Homecare or home healthcare are interchangeable terms used to describe the provision of medical supplies and/or clinical services in the community. This encompasses the services provided by a wide range of organisations; for this reason the more specific term Clinical Homecare is often used. Clinical homecare typically involves the provision of medication, medical supplies, nursing support and clinical waste collection to patients at home. The medication can consist of both oral drugs and parenteral products (drugs administered by non-oral routes) with the latter often manufactured to meet patient-specific requirements. Clinical homecare has expanded rapidly over the last 10 years and this growth continues to increase with the Government’s focus towards treating patients at home. In addition to freeing up limited hospital resources, this approach can allow patients to experience an increased quality of life and the freedom to take responsibility (within a carefully defined remit) for aspects of their own treatment. Homecare services are being provided for an ever increasing range of therapy areas including cystic fibrosis, artificial nutrition, thalassaemia, rheumatology, multiple sclerosis, HIV, haemophilia and endocrine disorders. Definition of clinical homecare Clinical homecare is defined as the provision of medical supplies and/or clinical services to patients in the community. Objectives of the NCHA To establish a trade group with a credible reputation in homecare supply by providing clear standards of membership and setting minimum industry standards. To provide a forum for lobbying on issues that affect homecare. To set and debate policy decisions with the National Homecare Medicine Supply Committee and other relevant government bodies. To provide a forum where a trade position can be provided on Government papers and policy review. |
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