Pope Francis Set for Hospital Discharge and Return to Vienna
- Patient is Discharged from Gemelli-Clinic
On February 14, Pope Frances (88), head of the Roman Catholic Church, was admitted to Rome's Gemelli Hospital. At a press conference on Saturday evening, doctors announced that the pontiff could leave the hospital on Sunday, March 23. According to "La Repubblica" among others, Francis will wave to his well-wishers from the tenth floor of the Gemelli Hospital before heading back to his digs at the Vatican's Santa Marta.
Blessing First, Then a Much-Needed Rest
On Saturday morning, the Holy See's press office announced that the Pope will bless the masses in front of the Gemelli Hospital in Rome and impart his blessing at 12 pm on Sunday afternoon.
During his hospital stay, the Pope's health took a tumultuous turn, with his clinical condition becoming critical on two separate occasions. However, a stable period of two weeks has given doctors confidence that he's on the mend. Nevertheless, he'll need rest for another two months after returning to the Vatican and will still require oxygen and medication due to some lingering germs, as reported by "Vatican News."
In the coming weeks, Pope Francis won't receive large groups of visitors and will only be able to perform his duties to a limited extent.
Pope Francis was admitted to the hospital with bronchitis, which eventually led to bilateral pneumonia and a polymicrobial infection. The Vatican has been keeping the public updated on his health status and has published images of the Pope celebrating mass on the 10th floor of the Gemelli Hospital.
- Pope Francis
- Roman Catholic Church
- Hospitalization
- Treatment
- Medication
- Rest
- Oxygen Therapy
What's Next for Pope Francis?
According to enrichment data gathered from various sources, here's what you can expect from the pontiff's health and activities following his hospital discharge:
Recovery Updates
- Pope Francis, after a five-week hospitalization for bilateral pneumonia, was discharged from the Agostino Gemelli Hospital on March 23, 2025, and returned to his residence at the Vatican for convalescence[2][3].
- During his hospitalization, the Pope faced two near-death episodes due to severe respiratory complications. He also suffered from mucus accumulation that led to two episodes of acute respiratory failure[3]. Despite these challenges, he received non-invasive mechanical ventilation and high-flow oxygen therapy, staying alert throughout[2][3].
Ongoing Treatment
- Pope Francis has been prescribed at least two months of convalescence at the Vatican. During this period, he will continue with pharmacological treatments, along with physical and respiratory physiotherapy to aid in his recovery[3].
- He will still utilize oxygen therapy as part of his treatment to support his respiratory health[3].
Limitations
- The Pope has been advised to avoid large gatherings and limit his activities to ensure a smooth recovery. This means he won't immediately resume his previous work schedule or meet with people as frequently[2].
- The focus remains on rest and rehabilitation to support his overall health restoration[2].
- After his five-week hospitalization for bilateral pneumonia, Pope Francis will continue treatment upon his return to the Vatican, including at least two months of convalescence, pharmacological treatments, physical and respiratory physiotherapy, and ongoing oxygen therapy.
- Due to his ongoing health issues, Pope Francis has been advised to avoid large gatherings and limit his activities to ensure a smooth recovery, with the focus remaining on rest and rehabilitation.
- The Pope will need further rest and treatment at the Vatican for another two months after his discharge from the Agostino Gemelli Hospital on March 23, 2025.
