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Home First

What is Home First?

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Healing happens at the place you call home.

Home First is more than a philosophy, it's about:

  • creating a discharge plan with the goal of getting you back home.
  • providing the care you need to keep living at home.

We start planning for your discharge home as soon as you are admitted to the hospital. Our goal is to connect you with the right community resources to support your recovery, independence, and quality of life outside of the hospital.

Home First was identified as a priority in the Government of Nova Scotia's strategic plan called Action for Health:

Home First is everyone’s responsibility. Nova Scotia Health Home First’s goal is to provide the care and support for patients to recover and remain at home or in the community. Home First begins in the community, during a hospital admission, and throughout the discharge planning process with the goal of returning the patient to the place they call home.

Why Home is Best for Recovery

Research shows that people recover faster and more fully at home. The benefits include:

  • The risk of infection is lower at home than in a hospital.
  • Your home is more familiar and may be quieter. This can support your healing through better sleep.
  • Moving every day at home helps you keep up your strength.
  • Spending time with loved ones can help your emotional and physical recovery.
  • Going back to your usual routine helps lower stress and can support your well-being.
  • It is easier to make important life and care decisions in the comfort of your home.
  • Spiritual recovery. Recover where you feel comfort and support, connected to your community and familiar surroundings.

How Does Home First Work?

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Discharge planning: Planning for your discharge home starts as soon as you are admitted to the hospital.

  • From the time you are admitted to the hospital, we start planning your Estimated Date of Discharge (EDD). This is the date you are expected to go home or move to another care setting (like rehabilitation [rehab]).
  • Your EDD will depend on how your health improves during your stay.

Care plan: Your health care team will work with you and your essential care partners to find out your needs, coordinate resources, and plan for your continued care.

Referrals to community resources: You may be referred to services like home care, therapy, and caregiver supports.