Home First: Reducing hospital stays and improving patient wellbeing

5th December 2025

For many people, receiving treatment at home or in the community rather than in a hospital setting leads to better outcomes, and returning home as soon as possible following medical treatment leads to a quicker recovery. This is also known as a Home First approach. 

Spending too long in hospital can lead to deconditioning – the loss of independence and deterioration of overall health and wellbeing. Deconditioning can include a loss of strength and balance, but also mental side effects like confusion and depression. 

Being at home and doing usual activities like getting dressed and making a cup of tea is proven to help patients retain independence and boost wellbeing. It also limits the risk of developing a healthcare-associated infection. 

Cardiff and Vale University Health Board supports the Home First approach through initiatives like Safe at Home, and the Reducing Time in Hospital campaign.