House call Meaning and Definition
House call
Pronunciation
/ˈhaʊs ˈkɔl/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A visit by a medical professional, such as a doctor or nurse, to a patient’s home or residence, rather than at a hospital or clinic, to provide medical care or consultation.
Etymology
The term “house call” originated in the 19th century, derived from the practice of doctors making visits to patients’ homes to provide medical care. This tradition has continued, adapting to modern healthcare advancements.
Usage Notes
House calls are often used for regular check-ups, follow-up care, or minor treatments, especially for elderly or homebound patients. They may also be used for emergency situations or for patients who cannot access medical facilities due to illness, disability, or isolation.
Cultural References
House calls have been featured in various forms of media, including the TV show “House” (2004-2012), where the main character, Dr. Gregory House, makes unconventional house calls, and the song “House Call” by The Dandy Warhols (1997), which mentions a doctor’s visit.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- Make a house call
Related Words or Phrases
- Home visit
- Medical consultation
Collocations
- House call at home
- House call for a check-up
Frequency of Use
House calls are a relatively common practice in healthcare, with many medical professionals and insurance providers offering this service as part of their services.
Common Misspellings
houscall, housecall, houses cal