COVID-19 Home Monitoring Program: Healthcare Innovation in developing, maintaining, and Outcome of SARS-CoV-2 infected patients

Abstract

Introduction The Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) had caused an increased burden on healthcare organizations. Thus, a new strategy is needed to ensure all COVID-19 positive cases are followed up appropriately, receive the proper medical and psychological support, and comply with the isolation guidelines. Here, we describe the characteristics and outcome of COVID-19 patients who were managed at home. In addition, we describe the differences between asymptomatic and those with mild symptoms. Materials and Methods This is descriptive study of all COVID-19 positive cases who were monitored utilizing the home care concept. Results During the study period from June 8 to October 18, 2020, there were a total of 5368 COVID-19 patients who were referred to the home isolation/monitoring program. Of those, 2397 (45%) were female and 2971 (55%) were male. Of the total cases, 295 (5%) required hospital admission, 45 (1%) were admitted to zone 2, and the majority 5028 (94%) were continued in the home monitoring till recovery. Of the total cases, 3137 (59%) were asymptomatic and the remaining 41% were symptomatic. Asymptomatic patients in comparison to symptomatic patients showed significant differences in relation to age, gender, being healthcare workers, and the presence of significant medical conditions. However, a logistic regression analysis showed that only age and the presence of diabetes mellitus were associated with the presence of symptoms. The mean age (+ SD) of those who required hospital admission was higher than those who were discharged or cared for in zone 2. Conclusion The utilization of home monitoring program was effective and safe in patients who were either asymptomatic or had mild symptoms.