Judith, a 73 year old widow with nearest family in Washington State, needed surgery and there was nobody available to drive her or help out. Unlike 20 years ago, there are more independent seniors who live remotely from family. At the same time, more surgical procedures are done with patients going home the same day. To solve this problem PostOp Concierge was created by Karl Frindrich, MD in partnership with Ruby Ride a prescription car service in the valley.
PostOp Concierge delivers patients to surgery and picks them up from surgery for a ride home in comfort. All caregivers are extensively background checked, CPR, AED and First Aid trained. Caregivers are educated on safe patient transfer from car to home as well as a Home Safe Program™, encouraging a safer home environment by making sure all passageways to bedroom, bathroom and kitchen are well lit and free of tripping hazards.
Caregivers can also help interpret post-operative instructions making them clearer increasing the chance patients are doing what they need for optimal recovery. Dr. Frindrich also created a Home Readiness Index that looks at pain, nausea/vomiting, movement, consciousness and breathing. If a patient needs help in any of these areas the caregiver helps them get the care they need quickly. This combination of services is intended to create a safer environment, reduce anxiety and make the post-operative experience more comfortable.
The future of the senior medical industry is headed in the concierge direction. Communities need to embrace new models of care that are both safe and affordable options providing that continued peace of mind. After all, we are all going to be seniors one day and we only hope that the level of care and attention makes sense.