DOCTORS' CLINIC MAKES HOUSE CALLS

Doctors making house calls went by the wayside decades ago, but Midtown Family Medical Clinic is trying to resurrect the practice.

"There are some patients who have difficulty coming to the clinic because they don't have transportation or they have a disability," said Dr. Robert Hoffman, a family practitioner who runs the clinic. "We think making house calls will be a service to them."

The Cape Girardeau clinic was opened by Craftsman Independent Union to serve its members and nearby residents.

Dennis Long, a nurse practitioner at the clinic, began the service Monday and has already made a few house calls. "The patients were just thrilled," Long said. "I think this is something that is really needed."

Nurse practitioners are registered nurses with additional training to work with a physician. They can diagnose and treat many types of cases and can prescribe medications with the exception of controlled substances, Hoffman said.

Typical patients Long will treat through house calls are those with hypertension who need their blood pressure monitored, colds and flu, and sinus, ear and throat infections.

The typical patient, Hoffman said, is expected to be an older person who has trouble getting around or lacks transportation and depends on others to get to appointments.

"Not being able to get here is not these patients' fault," Hoffman said. "We're trying to adjust to their needs."

Long said he treats an elderly woman who doesn't drive and often must wait a long time for a ride to the clinic. She then must wait again for a ride home.

"She would be a good candidate for this program," Hoffman said. "It would save her from having to wait such a large portion of her day."

Those who call inquiring about the program are questioned to establish why they need the service. If the need is there, Long heads out in his van.

Long said treatment is the same whether he sees patients at their homes or at the office. He takes along equipment like a thermometer; blood pressure cuff; stethoscope; instruments for examining ears, nose and throat; blood tubes and glucose monitors.

"I can do blood work, if needed, and refill prescriptions," Long said.

Hoffman said several patients who were making regular visits to the clinic for blood pressure monitoring already have signed up for house calls. He said he expects soon to be serving 10 to 15 clients per week.

"I think the number will grow because there are so many people who can use this service," Hoffman said.