Scientists and doctors are quickly learning about how to deal with COVID-19, but there are still lots of uncertainties about how it behaves and why some people are more severely affected than others by the virus.
However, doctors do already know a lot about the specific hospital interventions that are available, and how effective they are in general for people in different states of health. And they know that some of these interventions don't work on people who are already very frail or unwell with certain underlying health conditions.
In addition, doctors know that it is not a good idea to 'try' an intervention on someone if it is extremely unlikely to work - interventions have negative side-effects for patients.
Doctors also know that there are certain interventions that can be given at home - someone doesn't necessarily need to go to hospital to receive support with COVID-19.
A doctor will take all of this into account when considering the best place is for you to be cared for. They will take into account your wishes, your personal situation, your underlying health, and anything else that is relevant. They will weigh the risks and benefits, and together with you, will come to a decision based on what, on balance, seems best for you.
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