At the heart of the Peer Health Navigator program is the understanding that the healthcare experience can be overwhelmingly daunting for patients, particularly for the elderly who may face multiple chronic conditions. Navigating through a multitude of appointments, treatments, and medications often leads to confusion and anxiety. This program seeks to alleviate such burdens by employing trained peer health navigators. These individuals, often sharing similar backgrounds or experiences with the patient population, offer relatability and understanding, critically dismantling barriers to access and engagement with healthcare services.

The structure of the program involves these navigators working collaboratively with patients, assessing their individual needs, and promoting adherence to care plans. This tailored approach is not only compassionate but strategic, as it empowers patients to take an active role in their healthcare journey. Empowerment is a crucial element; by involving patients in decision-making processes regarding their treatments and care, the program fosters a newfound sense of ownership over their health outcomes. This paradigm shift is not simply a positive anecdote; it has the potential to yield significant statistical improvements in overall health metrics.

Research indicates that frequent hospitalizations can drain healthcare resources and leave patients vulnerable to adverse health outcomes. The program’s objective is threefold: to reduce hospital readmission rates, improve patient satisfaction, and enhance overall health literacy among seniors. By focusing on these areas, the initiative strives to create a sustainable model that not only benefits individual patients but also alleviates wider systemic pressures on healthcare institutions. Each navigator is trained to not only provide information but to empower patients to make informed choices, a process which has demonstrated potential in reducing rates of readmission.

The implications of the Peer Health Navigator program extend beyond just immediate healthcare concerns. By investing in proactive patient support, particularly for those with higher health risks, there’s an opportunity to foster a healthier aging population. This can lead to broader societal benefits such as decreased healthcare costs and improved quality of life for the elderly. As this demographic continues to grow, innovative solutions like the Navigator program highlight the critical intersection between community support and healthcare access.

Moreover, as hospitals and healthcare systems grapple with the realities of limited resources and increasing patient loads, the implementation of peer support models may serve as a viable solution to these challenges. Evidence suggests that social support mechanisms can have profound effects on patient recovery and adherence to care plans. Unlike traditional healthcare approaches often characterized by detachment, the peer health navigator model emphasizes relational care — a foundational principle that aligns well with the holistic approaches increasingly favored in geriatric healthcare.

In the context of technology’s advancing role in healthcare, integrating digital tools with the Navigator program can further enhance its efficacy. Utilizing telehealth platforms, navigators can maintain ongoing communication with patients, ensuring continued support and guidance even between scheduled appointments. This connection may help mitigate feelings of isolation that numerous older adults experience, proving that technology can be a powerful ally in fostering engagement and compliance.

As the program progresses, it also seeks to engage family members and caregivers, recognizing their vital role in a patient’s support system. By educating family units about the challenges and changes patients face, the Peer Health Navigator program nurtures a comprehensive approach to health management that benefits all stakeholders involved. The multi-generational aspect of support not only strengthens patient outcomes but also enriches family dynamics, fostering healthier communication patterns that can lead to improved patient adherence.

Ultimately, the Peer Health Navigator program represents a novel approach to addressing the interconnected issues of healthcare access, patient education, and chronic disease management. As communities globally continue to face the challenges of an aging population, innovative solutions such as this illuminate pathways for sustainable health practices. Engaging peers to assist those most in need may well prove to be a transformative step forward in the quest for enhanced healthcare delivery.

In summary, the proposed initiative by Jessup et al. stands as a beacon of hope for both patients and healthcare systems alike. As research continues to emphasize the importance of supportive care structures, the integration of peer navigators could spearhead a movement towards more effective, patient-centered approaches to healthcare. Following the implementation of the program, future evaluations will provide critical insights into its success and areas for improvement, shaping the next generation of geriatric care. The call for advancements in healthcare is urgent, and the Peer Health Navigator program paves the way for significant change, demonstrating the power of community-based support in healthcare innovation.

In a world of increasing healthcare complexities, the need for empathetic and effective solutions such as the Peer Health Navigator program is clearer than ever. By placing emphasis on shared experiences and supportive relationships, this program not only aims to reduce hospitalizations but also seeks to uplift the entire healthcare experience for at-risk populations, proving that with compassion and collaboration, we can indeed transform lives.

Subject of Research: Implementation of a peer health navigator program for patients at risk for frequent hospitalisation.

Article Title: Implementation of a peer health navigator program for patients at risk for frequent hospitalisation.

Article References: Jessup, R.L., Stockman, K., Nguyen, D. et al. Implementation of a peer health navigator program for patients at risk for frequent hospitalisation. BMC Geriatr (2026). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12877-025-06945-y

Image Credits: AI Generated

DOI:

Keywords: Peer Health Navigator, patient care, healthcare access, elderly support, chronic disease management, healthcare innovation.

The study spanned multiple skilled nursing facilities and focused on a cohort of patients who were admitted to hospitals and subsequently discharged to these facilities for rehabilitation. Notably, this research arrived during a crucial time when healthcare providers are under pressure to enhance patient outcomes while simultaneously controlling costs. The authors aimed to determine whether a structured post-acute care management program could effectively reduce readmission rates and overall acute care utilization—a key metric for assessing healthcare efficiency and quality.

Central to the research was the post-acute care management program itself, which combined comprehensive patient assessment, tailored care plans, and interdisciplinary care team involvement. The authors theorized that by addressing specific patient needs and ensuring close monitoring, healthcare providers could minimize complications and expedite recovery. The clinical approach involved not only physicians but also nurses, social workers, and rehabilitation therapists, emphasizing the value of a holistic care model.

One of the pivotal components of the program was the deployment of advanced data analytics to identify patients at higher risk for readmission. By analyzing historical data, providers were able to customize interventions based on individual risk factors, thereby improving overall patient care. The application of predictive analytics is becoming increasingly relevant in modern healthcare, as it empowers teams to proactively address potential issues before they escalate into serious complications.

As the research progressed, the authors meticulously recorded patient outcomes and satisfaction levels. The evidence garnered from this study revealed noteworthy insights; patients who received post-acute care management demonstrated lower rates of hospital readmissions compared to those in standard care pathways. This outcome is significant not only for patient health but also for healthcare systems that seek to lower expenditures associated with avoidable hospital visits.

In their analysis, the authors delved deeper into the factors contributing to successful care transitions. It became apparent that effective communication between healthcare providers, patients, and their families played a crucial role. The implementation of education sessions for both patients and care teams was a strategy that facilitated a smoother transition from hospital to skilled nursing facility. Given the complexity of post-acute care, this focus on communication emerges as a vital element of effective interventions.

Another noteworthy finding was the importance of follow-up care post-discharge. The authors highlighted that regular check-ins and telehealth consultations significantly aided in managing patients’ health post-discharge, thereby reducing the likelihood of returning to the hospital. With telemedicine now a staple in healthcare, particularly following the COVID-19 pandemic, the implications of this finding are far-reaching and may influence future healthcare policies.

The role of the interdisciplinary team also cannot be understated. The research underscored how collaboration among various healthcare professionals fosters a culture of accountability and ensures that patients receive well-rounded care. Through shared decision-making processes and coordinated efforts, the team was able to address multiple facets of a patient’s recovery journey, ultimately optimizing outcomes and enhancing the quality of care.

As the study concluded, the results painted a promising picture for implementing structured post-acute care management programs as a standard practice in skilled nursing facilities. The authors advocate for healthcare systems to invest in such programs, suggesting that the long-term benefits—reduced hospital readmissions, lower healthcare costs, and improved patient satisfaction—far outweigh the initial implementation costs. The research aligns with a growing body of evidence advocating for a shift towards more integrated and patient-centered care models across the healthcare continuum.

In light of these findings, providers are urged to consider the potential of tailored post-acute care programs not solely as an operational necessity but as a moral imperative to enhance patient health outcomes. The call to action is clear: healthcare systems must adapt to the evolving landscape of patient care demands and prioritize strategies that involve proactive management of post-acute patients to ensure better healthcare delivery.

The implications of this research reverberate beyond the immediate confines of skilled nursing facilities. For policymakers, the study underscores the urgent need to rethink regulations and incentives that currently govern post-acute care services. As healthcare continues to evolve, embracing innovative approaches and leveraging data-driven insights can lead to transformative changes in patient care.

In conclusion, Armstrong, Agovi, Gehr, and their team have provided a vital roadmap for future research and practice in post-acute care management. Their work highlights how a structured and collaborative approach can significantly influence patient outcomes while also addressing the overarching challenges facing the healthcare system. By championing these evidence-based strategies, the goal of achieving higher-quality, cost-effective healthcare can be more readily realized, paving the way for a healthier future for patients and healthcare providers alike.

The conversation surrounding post-acute care management is just beginning. As healthcare professionals and institutions digest these findings, one can expect a renewed focus on optimizing patient care pathways and enhancing collaborative practices. The potential to transform patient recovery experiences through evidence-based interventions stands as a testament to the commitment of researchers and practitioners to deliver the highest standard of care.

In the coming years, as more facilities adopt similar frameworks, the landscape of post-acute care will surely continue to evolve, ushering in new opportunities for research, policy, and practice in this essential sphere of healthcare delivery.

Subject of Research: Post-acute care management programs and their impact on acute care utilization.

Article Title: Effects of a post-acute care management program on subsequent acute care utilization for hospitalized patients discharged to skilled nursing facilities.

Article References:

Armstrong, D., Agovi, A.MA., Gehr, A.W. et al. Effects of a post-acute care management program on subsequent acute care utilization for hospitalized patients discharged to skilled nursing facilities.
BMC Health Serv Res (2026). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12913-025-13944-7

Image Credits: AI Generated

DOI:

Keywords: Post-acute care, healthcare utilization, readmission rates, interdisciplinary care, patient management, healthcare costs.

At the heart of the concept of Substance Use Navigators lies the recognition that individuals suffering from SUDs often encounter numerous barriers when attempting to access treatment. These barriers range from logistical challenges, such as navigating complex healthcare systems, to psychological and social factors that dissuade individuals from seeking help. The study highlights how Substance Use Navigators, trained professionals who guide patients from the point of diagnosis through treatment and beyond, can serve as invaluable allies in overcoming these hurdles. By providing personalized assistance, navigators not only empower patients but also bridge the often-daunting gap between patients and the services they desperately need.

In examining the outcomes of this initiative, the researchers employed a robust methodology, focusing on a diverse cohort of patients with varying backgrounds and degrees of substance use severity. The utilization of both quantitative and qualitative data allowed the team to ascertain the effect of navigators not just on treatment initiation but also on the broader journey of care. The results demonstrated a significant increase in treatment engagement among those who had the support of Substance Use Navigators, suggesting that the tailored interventions provided by these professionals were indeed effective. This reinforces the notion that having a dedicated support system can markedly improve patient outcomes.

Moreover, the study delves deeper into the implications of navigator involvement in reducing unplanned hospital readmissions. The findings are particularly salient in the context of healthcare systems, where readmissions can come with substantial financial repercussions. By streamlining care and ensuring that patients remain connected to their treatment paths, navigators play a crucial role in mitigating these costly readmissions. The data indicate a marked decrease in the rate of unplanned readmissions among patients who engaged with SUD navigators, highlighting not only the clinical benefits but also the potential economic advantages of implementing such programs more widely.

The research also acknowledges the diverse skill set that Substance Use Navigators bring to the table. Beyond merely having knowledge about available resources and services, these professionals are equipped with skills in motivational interviewing, crisis intervention, and case management. Their holistic approach emphasizes the importance of understanding a patient’s unique circumstances, including social determinants of health that may influence their substance use and willingness to seek treatment. By incorporating a personalized touch into their support, they ensure that the care provided is not only evidence-based but also responsive to the individual needs of each patient.

Furthermore, the work highlights the critical nature of collaboration between various healthcare entities, including hospitals, outpatient treatment centers, and community organizations. The integration of Substance Use Navigators within these frameworks can create a more cohesive care experience for patients, fostering an environment where treatment adherence is not just encouraged but actively supported. This collaborative approach is in stark contrast to the more fragmented care models that have historically characterized the treatment of SUDs, establishing a new paradigm in patient-centered care.

One of the most compelling aspects of this study is the potential for scalability of the navigator program. The researchers emphasize that while the initial findings are promising, further investigation is necessary to establish best practices for training, implementation, and evaluation in diverse settings. The flexibility of the navigator model could allow for tailored adaptations in various healthcare environments, potentially transforming how SUD treatment is approached on a broader scale. This adaptability aligns with current trends in health innovation, focusing on personalized and localized solutions to public health challenges.

Moreover, the study acknowledges the need for continued evaluation and refinement of navigator programs. While the initial success is notable, understanding the long-term impact of these interventions will be essential in justifying the resources required to maintain such a system. Future research should aim to explore the sustained efficacy of navigators over time, particularly in recovering individuals who may still face challenges even after initial treatment engagement. The insights gleaned could set the foundation for making informed decisions about funding, policy-making, and implementation practices.

As the discourse surrounding SUD treatment continues to evolve, the role of Substance Use Navigators has emerged as a focal point for future investigations and discussions. The findings of Campbell and colleagues serve as a catalyst for a deeper exploration into how healthcare systems can better address substance use issues and support vulnerable populations effectively. The implications of their research extend beyond the individuals directly affected, reaching into the broader societal context and emphasizing the need for systemic changes in how healthcare responds to SUDs.

In summary, the compelling portrait painted by this research underscores the transformative potential of Substance Use Navigators in tackling some of contemporary healthcare’s most pressing challenges. By actively involving these navigators in patient care, there is a real opportunity to shift the trajectory of SUD treatment, leading to improved patient outcomes, reduced costs, and ultimately, a healthier society. As this research gains traction, it will undoubtedly inspire further inquiries into innovative support mechanisms that empower individuals and reshape the landscape of healthcare as we know it.

The call to action is clear: we must not only recognize the importance of Substance Use Navigators but also diligently work towards integrating their roles into the fabric of healthcare systems globally. The synergy created by their involvement promises to be a game-changer in the fight against substance use disorders, offering renewed hope to individuals seeking recovery.

This study not only highlights the immediate benefits of implementing substance use navigation but also poses a broader question for the field of medicine: How can we continue to adapt and evolve our approaches to meet the unique needs of patients facing increasingly complex health challenges? It is an evolving narrative that invites ongoing reflection, research, and innovation—a narrative that celebrates the commitment to improving lives through informed, compassionate care.

Subject of Research: Impact of Substance Use Navigators on Treatment Initiation and Hospital Readmissions

Article Title: Impact of Substance Use Navigators on Initiation of Treatment for Substance Use Disorders and 30-Day Unplanned Readmission

Article References:

Campbell, A., Rosen, A.D., Shoptaw, S.J. et al. Impact of Substance Use Navigators on Initiation of Treatment for Substance Use Disorders and 30-Day Unplanned Readmission. J GEN INTERN MED (2025). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11606-025-09902-y

Image Credits: AI Generated

DOI: 10.1007/s11606-025-09902-y

Keywords: Substance Use Disorders, Substance Use Navigators, Treatment Initiation, Hospital Readmission, Patient Support, Healthcare Innovation

The canton of Basel-Stadt, a Swiss urban hub, historically lacked structured assertive community treatment (ACT) programs despite mounting evidence globally supporting their efficacy. Responding to this gap, researchers led by Jaffé et al. embarked on developing Re-ACT, tailoring it to the unique healthcare landscape and patient demographics of the canton. This program specifically targets people with a documented history of frequent inpatient psychiatric stays, aiming to provide them with sustained outpatient support that prioritizes recovery and autonomy post-discharge. The program’s innovative framework is grounded in international best practices but adapted to local healthcare system constraints and cultural context.

Technically, assertive community treatment is a multidisciplinary approach that delivers comprehensive, individualized care through a team of mental health professionals who provide intensive and flexible support within the patient’s community environment. Unlike conventional outpatient services that may rely on scheduled appointments, ACT teams engage proactively with patients, offering 24/7 availability, medication management, crisis intervention, and psychosocial rehabilitation. These elements are integrated with a strong focus on empowering patients to reclaim control over their lives, reducing reliance on inpatient hospitalization.

Over the pilot period from 2019 to 2022, the research meticulously assessed outcomes among 110 individuals enrolled in the Re-ACT program compared with 292 individuals receiving minimal or standard outpatient care following discharge. The primary evaluation metrics included the frequency and duration of subsequent inpatient admissions, incidences of involuntary hospitalizations, and patient-reported satisfaction levels. The contrast in clinical outcomes is stark: participants in the Re-ACT program exhibited a significant decrease in the number of inpatient treatment days and readmission rates, underscoring the program’s success in stabilizing patients within the community.

Notably, involuntary admissions, which often exacerbate the trauma and stigma associated with psychiatric hospitalization, also decreased among Re-ACT participants. This marked reduction suggests that assertive community interventions not only deter avoidable hospital stays but may also contribute to improved legal and ethical dimensions of mental health care. Involuntary admissions are often a marker of crisis escalation, and their decline implies enhanced early intervention capabilities intrinsic to the Re-ACT model.

User experience and perceived quality of care remain vital for the sustainability of any mental health program. Feedback collected through structured interviews and satisfaction surveys revealed overwhelmingly positive participant responses. Patients valued the accessibility of care, the personalized approach tailored to their specific needs, and the collaborative decision-making embedded in the Re-ACT program ethos. High satisfaction aligns with recovery-oriented principles that cultivate hope, agency, and resilience among individuals living with severe mental illnesses.

From a systems perspective, the pilot study’s findings illustrate the program’s feasibility within a Swiss healthcare setting, providing a scalable blueprint that may inspire broader adoption across other cantons and countries with similar healthcare infrastructures. The successful integration of Re-ACT into existing services required strategic coordination among hospitals, outpatient providers, social services, and policymakers, demonstrating the necessity for multi-sectoral collaboration in mental health reform.

The study also highlights several technical considerations relevant for practitioners and health administrators. For instance, comprehensive staff training in recovery-driven practices, robust case management infrastructure, and mechanisms for continuous monitoring and evaluation were critical to maintaining program fidelity and responsiveness over time. The financial implications suggest that while upfront investment in community-based resources is essential, cost savings emerge through reduced hospitalization expenses, a factor that health economists and policymakers increasingly recognize.

Psychiatric care has long grappled with addressing the complex needs of individuals who cycle in and out of hospitals, often lacking the support necessary to sustain community living. Re-ACT’s success offers compelling evidence that assertive, recovery-focused community treatment can break this cycle and lay the foundations for long-term stability. This aligns with global mental health objectives espoused by the World Health Organization and other leading bodies advocating for deinstitutionalization and community integration.

Clinically, the program’s impact extends beyond mere hospitalization metrics to encompass holistic wellbeing—a core tenet in modern psychiatry. By fostering interpersonal connections, enhancing medication adherence, and providing psychosocial rehabilitation, Re-ACT exemplifies how comprehensive mental health care transcends symptom management to promote functional recovery. This multidimensional care approach is especially critical for patients with complex comorbidities and social challenges.

However, the journey from pilot to permanent establishment of Re-ACT involves navigating challenges such as sustainable funding, staff retention, and ensuring equity in access, particularly for vulnerable populations who may face linguistic, cultural, or socioeconomic barriers. Ongoing research will be key to refining the intervention, evaluating long-term outcomes, and adapting methodologies in response to evolving patient needs and healthcare landscapes.

The Swiss experience with Re-ACT therefore represents a timely contribution to the international discourse on psychiatric care innovation. It underscores that assertive community interventions, when thoughtfully designed and expertly implemented, can revolutionize mental health services by anchoring treatment firmly within patients’ everyday lives. This approach not only mitigates the revolving door phenomenon but also aligns psychiatric care with principles of dignity, respect, and recovery.

As mental health systems worldwide seek sustainable models to address chronic and severe psychiatric conditions, Re-ACT offers a compelling case for reimagining care pathways. By reducing hospital dependence and enhancing quality of life, such community-based programs may pave the way for more humane, effective, and economically viable mental health services in the 21st century.

Subject of Research: Implementation and evaluation of a recovery-oriented assertive community treatment program (Re-ACT) for individuals with heavy psychiatric inpatient service use.

Article Title: Implementation of a recovery-oriented assertive community treatment (Re-ACT) program for people with heavy use of psychiatric treatment in Switzerland: results from a three-year pilot study.

Article References:
Jaffé, M.E., Moeller, J., Rabenschlag, F. et al. Implementation of a recovery-oriented assertive community treatment (Re-ACT) program for people with heavy use of psychiatric treatment in Switzerland: results from a three-year pilot study. BMC Psychiatry 25, 828 (2025). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12888-025-07287-0

Image Credits: AI Generated

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s12888-025-07287-0

The study assessed 83 children aged between five and 18 years who were admitted to The Royal Children’s Hospital (RCH) for complicated appendectomies, specifically focusing on those with severe cases where traditional post-operative care usually entails extended hospital stays. Out of those studied, 35 children were assessed as suitable candidates for the Hospital in the Home (HITH) program. This innovative program allows specialized care to be provided in a home setting, significantly deviating from the conventional method that emphasizes continuous hospital supervision.

An essential aspect of the research was the need for intravenous antibiotics as part of the post-surgical care plan. All participants required a minimum of five days of antibiotic treatment following their procedures. Under the HITH model, trained nurses administered these medications with daily visits to the children’s homes, allowing for careful monitoring and immediate response to any potential complications. The study’s results indicated that those children who received at-home care not only recovered more quickly but also experienced fewer complications, suggesting that home recovery could be both an effective and safe alternative to traditional hospital care.

The lead researcher, Associate Professor Penelope Bryant from MCRI, emphasized that the findings challenge the longstanding belief that children undergoing serious surgeries must remain hospitalized for their recovery. The data indicated a substantial reduction—up to 35 percent—in the duration of hospital stays without compromising patient safety or extending antibiotic treatment durations unnecessarily. This presents a significant paradigm shift in pediatric post-operative care and opens the door to further exploration of home-based recovery models.

The implications of this study are profound, particularly in light of the increasing demand for hospital resources. Every year, more than 300 patients are admitted to RCH with appendicitis, with a considerable portion suffering from severe complications like ruptured appendices. Implementing the HITH program could alleviate the strain on hospital capacity, allowing medical facilities to focus on patients with more critical needs while freeing up much-needed bed space.

Associate Professor Warwick Teague, a co-researcher, highlighted that the HITH approach is particularly timely, especially given the insights gained during the COVID-19 pandemic, which saw a surge in remote care models. The pandemic forced many healthcare systems to innovate and adapt quickly; as a result, many healthcare facilities began to recognize the value of at-home care options. This study provides further evidence that effective post-operative care can transition from the hospital to the home, adequately balancing safety and patient health outcomes.

Moreover, this trend has far-reaching economic implications. According to the study, the HITH program could save hospitals over $1,400 a day and families $300 daily, addressing financial burdens exacerbated by rising healthcare costs. Enhancing recovery protocols through such innovative strategies is pivotal for improving quality of life for patients and their families while simultaneously contributing to the sustainability of healthcare resources.

Furthermore, the findings of this study could redefine surgical practices and protocols as medical professionals consider the growing body of evidence supporting home recovery models. Traditionally, follow-up care after surgeries for severe appendicitis has necessitated hospital visits for assessments by surgical teams. However, this research suggests that trained non-surgical clinicians can effectively manage these patients’ care at home, provided they work collaboratively with surgical teams to ensure comprehensive monitoring and intervention when necessary.

As this research paves the way for a shift towards more patient-centered care, it also raises essential questions surrounding the selection criteria for children suitable for such models. Identifying the specific characteristics and health conditions that qualify patients for home recovery will be key to scaling this approach and integrating it into standard practice. Clinicians must be equipped to assess and determine when home-based care will be beneficial, ensuring patient safety while maximizing the benefits of this innovative model.

This study not only highlights the successes of the HITH approach in managing recovery for complicated appendicitis but also stimulates broader discussions about the future of pediatric surgical care. As healthcare continues to evolve, the lessons learned from this research could have implications well beyond appendicitis, influencing practices related to other surgical conditions and across different age groups.

In conclusion, the research by MCRI illustrates a groundbreaking shift in pediatric surgical recovery practices, suggesting that with the proper support and infrastructure, children can recover from complex surgeries effectively in a home environment. The implications of these findings resonate far beyond the immediate patient population and challenge the traditional paradigms of hospital recovery, promoting a future where at-home care could become a standard practice. As healthcare continues to adapt to new challenges and opportunities, further research will be necessary to optimize these models and ensure that they meet the evolving needs of patients, families, and the healthcare system.

Subject of Research: Children recovering from complicated appendicitis using Hospital-in-the-Home model
Article Title: Getting children home sooner on intravenous antibiotics with a Hospital-in-the-Home model of care for complicated appendicitis
News Publication Date: [Not provided]
Web References: [Not provided]
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Image Credits: [Not provided]

Keywords: Pediatric surgery, Hospital-at-home, Complicated appendicitis, Post-operative care, Healthcare innovation.