Page 64 - Care-for-vulnerable-populations-during-COVID-19-pandemic

4. Did the frequency of home visits / phone calls

reduced during this pandemic? How far does this
pandemic affect hospice care, such as access to

painkillers?

Dr. Vanitha: Yes, the number of home visits decreased by a lot. Phone calls actually increased
because we have been conducting daily phone calls. Usually, our home visits would be 3-4
patients in a day, but when it comes to phone calls could reach up to 10 patients in a day.
As for the care of the patients during this pandemic, from what I can perceived as well as the
feedbacks obtained from family members, I do not think that this has affected the care, because if
a patient is dying, video calls have allowed us to see and assess the patient. If there is a need, we
as a hospice medical team can make a difference to make a patient comfortable at home, we will
be able to provide direct care at home. If they want to die at the hospital for their final hours, we
will make the necessary arrangements as well and would contact the hospital to see the best ways
to bring the patient to the hospital with ease.