Northern Hospital Hospital in the Home (HITH) Overnight Oximetry Service provides publicly funded, home-based overnight oxygen monitoring for children and adolescents with suspected sleep-related breathing or respiratory concerns

• the test uses a small sticker worn on the finger or toe overnight at home to measure oxygen levels and heart rate during sleep

• the service is delivered through Northern Health’s HITH program, allowing patients to receive hospital-level care in the comfort of their own home

• suitable patients are assessed and provided with equipment and clear instructions by the HITH team

• results are reviewed by sleep paediatricians to guide further investigation (e.g. need for sleep study) or management

• this model improves access, reduces hospital visits, and supports timely respiratory care for families across Melbourne’s northern suburbs

• referrals are made by GPs or specialists through Northern Health, and the service is provided at no cost to eligible public patients.

• due to increasing demand, only patients in the Northern catchment will be eligible for this test.

Referral form