FAQ

Family House provides patients and their families with the comfort in knowing that everyday concerns are taken care of so they can focus on what really matters.

Family House
5308 Liberty Avenue
Pittsburgh, PA 15224
Reservations: 412-647-7777
Office: 412-578-8650

Who is eligible to stay at Family House?

Patients who are seeking medical treatment at Pittsburgh area hospitals, as well as their family members and caregivers, are welcome to stay at Family House. Family House also welcomes medical professionals and health-related students.

Do I need a caregiver?

Yes, all patients staying at Family House must have a caregiver who is a person 18 years or older. This person is solely responsible for the patient with whom they are staying. They must stay the entire length of the patient’s visit. They must be emotionally and physically able to care for the patient and themselves and be able to assist in possible decision making. Multiple caregivers are permitted as long as there is not a lapse in patient support.

How long can we stay at Family House?

Providing your visit is medically related and the Pittsburgh-based physician in charge of your care requires that you stay, you are welcome to remain at Family House, based upon availability.  Family House will make every effort to accommodate extensions; however, this on a day-by-day basis.

Can children stay at Family House?

No children under the age of 18 are allowed to be alone in the house without a parent or guardian.

What should we bring?

Bring any personal items that you will need and be prepared to plan for your meals. A fully equipped community kitchen is available for your meal preparations. Family House will provide all bed and bath linens. Family house does not provide medical or home care equipment such as wheelchairs, oxygen, walkers, or shower chairs. Please bring your own or make prior arrangements if needed.

Does Family House require masks?

As of October 14, 2022, masking in public spaces at Family House is optional. Guests are welcome to request staff and volunteers wear a mask during their interactions. Those who are feeling ill or experiencing COVID-19 symptoms should mask while in public spaces. We also request they limit their time in public spaces, if feeling ill. This policy is subject to change based on the Allegheny County COVID-19 transmission rate.

Is Family House close to the hospitals?

All Family House is conveniently located near Allegheny Health Network, UPMC Health System, and VA Pittsburgh Health System hospitals.

Is there transportation to and from the hospitals?

Courtesy shuttles operate regularly throughout the day and evening. When you arrive at Family House, a staff member or volunteer will give you an updated shuttle schedule. Check in with the house manager for transportation options to and from AHN hospitals.

What is your smoking policy?

Family House is a smoke-free facility. An outdoor smoking pavilion is provided to smoking guests.

Can I bring my pet?

Out of concern for the health of our immunosuppressed guests, Family House does not allow pets. If you will be accompanied by a certified service dog, please notify our housing office when you are making your room request.

Where do we park?

Family House has a limited number of on-site parking spaces, as well as a nearby annexed parking lot. Hospitals also offer parking. Due to the limited size of our lot, we cannot guarantee on-site parking.

• Family House On-Site Parking $10/day
• Annex Lot Parking $5/day
• Hospital Lot Parking $5/day

Please note all vehicles must be removed from Family House property when guests check out and return keys.

Are any meals provided?

Family House provides a complimentary breakfast daily. Throughout the year, volunteer groups prepare and serve dinners for guests. Additionally, there is a complimentary food pantry stocked with essentials so that guests can cook their own meals.

Are laundry facilities available?

Coin-operated laundry rooms are available on each floor. Machines are $1.50 each, and free laundry detergent is provided.

Is there a safe at the facility?

Family House does not have a safe for guests. Any valuables brought to Family House must stay with you at all times. Family House is not responsible for any valuables left on our premises.

Will we have computer access?

Family House guests have access to computer labs daily between 8:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. Wireless internet access is also available–learn about guest WiFi options here.

What are your daily guest fees?

Effective September 1, 2023:

* Note that rates are subject to change.

What time is check-in and check-out?

Guests must check in between 2:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. on their day of arrival. Check-out time is 10:00 a.m.

What is your cancellation policy?

All reservations must be cancelled by 4:00 p.m the day of check-in. Any reservation cancelled after 4:00 p.m. will be subject to one night’s charge. If the guest does not show or call to cancel, the room will be charged one night and then the balance of the reservation will be cancelled.

Does Family House provide medical services?

Family House does not provide medical assistance or home care services. Every patient must be accompanied by a caregiver, during their entire stay, to be eligible to stay at Family House. The caregiver must be a person age 18 or over.

How do we pay for our stay?

Family House accepts Cash, Check, Mastercard, Visa, and Discover Card.