Pigeon
Pigeon (Medicine)
Pigeon (/ˈpɪdʒ.ən/), in the context of medicine, is not directly related to the bird species of the same name. It is a colloquial term used to describe a patient who is frequently admitted to the hospital due to chronic illness or the inability to manage their health conditions at home. The term is often used in Emergency Medicine and Internal Medicine.
Etymology
The term "Pigeon" in this context is believed to have originated from the frequent visits these patients make to the hospital, similar to how pigeons often return to the same location. However, the exact origin of the term is unknown.
Related Terms
- Frequent Flyer: Another term used to describe patients who are often admitted to the hospital. Unlike "Pigeon", this term is often used in a more neutral or even positive context, as it can refer to patients who are proactive in seeking medical care.
- Hospital Readmission: This is when a patient is admitted to the hospital again after being discharged. Pigeons often have high rates of hospital readmission due to their chronic health conditions.
- Chronic Illness: A long-term health condition that may require ongoing medical attention or limit a person's activities. Pigeons often have one or more chronic illnesses.
- Primary Care: This is the day-to-day healthcare given by a health care provider. Pigeons may struggle with managing their health conditions at home, leading to frequent hospital visits.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Pigeon
- Wikipedia's article - Pigeon
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