PHP level of care
Pronunciation: pee-aitch-pee
Also written as: PHP — Partial Hospitalization Program
Partial Hospitalization Program, a day treatment program providing hospital-level psychiatric care without overnight stays.
Full Definition
PHP level of care represents the most intensive form of outpatient psychiatric treatment, typically providing 6-8 hours of programming per day, 5-7 days per week. These programs offer comprehensive services including group therapy, individual counseling, psychiatric evaluation and medication management, nursing care, and structured activities. PHPs serve as alternatives to inpatient hospitalization or step-down options for patients transitioning from residential care. They require medical clearance and are appropriate for patients needing intensive intervention while maintaining some community connections.
Usage
Usage note: PHP is always capitalized; distinguished from IOP by greater intensity and daily programming.
In Context
- "The patient's insurance approved PHP level of care for six weeks following psychiatric stabilization." — Authorization documentation
- "PHP level of care provides intensive daily treatment while allowing patients to return home each evening." — Level of care assessment