News Article: Doctors' house calls on the rise. Visits let physicians learn of patients' lives.

Doctors' house calls on the rise
Visits let physicians learn of patients' lives

By CHERIE BLACKP-I REPORTER
John Devine is 82 years old and has no interest in leaving home to socialize with others.

He'll pass on the so-called "senior activities" and get-togethers. He would rather read in the library of his assisted-living facility in Burien.

Wanting to stay home makes doctor visits and routine checkups a bit difficult, though. But Devine, a small, spry man with a Scottish brogue and a mischievous smile, has that taken care of. He has a doctor make a house call to him about once a month for a checkup and to help coordinate any other medical care he needs.

Once considered on the verge of extinction, house calls are making a comeback.

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