partial hospitalization program
Intensive outpatient treatment providing hospital-level care during daytime hours while patients return home evenings.
Full Definition
A partial hospitalization program (PHP) provides intensive mental health treatment that bridges the gap between inpatient hospitalization and traditional outpatient care. Patients attend treatment sessions 4-6 hours per day, typically 5-7 days per week, but return home each evening. PHP includes individual therapy, group therapy, medication management, family sessions, and structured activities. This level of care is appropriate for patients who need intensive support but can safely remain in the community with family or other supports. PHP often serves as step-down care after hospitalization or step-up care when outpatient treatment is insufficient.
Usage
Usage note: Commonly abbreviated as PHP; specify duration and frequency of attendance.
In Context
- "Patient was discharged to partial hospitalization program for continued intensive treatment." — discharge planning
- "PHP attendance was consistent with good engagement in group therapy and medication management." — progress review