The doctor will see you now, in your home

The old-fashioned house call is back in a big way. Here's how it works.

It's hard to get to the doctor when you don't drive anymore or you're struggling with several chronic medical conditions. The result may be missed appointments and a lack of needed care.

But a growing trend makes it far easier for older adults to get medical attention, bringing routine exams and diagnostic tests to the patient's doorstep. It's called home-based medical care — when doctors, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, or other providers visit and treat older adults right in their homes.