Pope Francis Set to Be Discharged from Hospital on Sunday

Vatican, 23 March, 2025: Pope Francis is set to leave Rome’s Agostino Gemelli Hospital on Sunday after being treated for an acute respiratory infection and bilateral pneumonia. He will return to his residence at the Vatican’s Casa Santa Marta to continue his recovery.

Doctor Sergio Alfieri, head of the Pope's medical team, announced the news on Saturday evening. “The good news the world and everyone is waiting for is that tomorrow the Holy Father will be discharged. Tomorrow he will return to Santa Marta,” Alfieri told journalists.

The doctor explained that Pope Francis’ condition had improved steadily and rapidly, allowing doctors to lift the prognosis. He revealed that when the Pope was admitted on 14 February, he was suffering from acute respiratory insufficiency caused by a polymicrobial infection, which led to bilateral pneumonia. This required a combined pharmacological treatment.

Alfieri confirmed that while the pneumonia has been successfully treated, the Pope will need at least two months of convalescence. During this period, he will continue to receive medical care and rest adequately.

“The Holy Father’s health is improving steadily,” Alfieri said. “The hope is he will soon be able to resume a work schedule.” However, he cautioned that this does not mean Pope Francis will immediately return to meeting groups and individuals as he did before.

The doctor praised Pope Francis for being a cooperative patient who consistently followed medical advice. He also confirmed that during his hospital stay, the Pope experienced two critical episodes where his life was at risk. Although he required non-invasive mechanical ventilation and high-flow oxygen therapy, he was never intubated and remained alert and oriented throughout.

Addressing concerns about the Pope’s recovery, Alfieri said a temporary “loss of voice” was normal following bilateral pneumonia and its treatment. He also clarified that Pope Francis does not suffer from diabetes.

Asked about the Pope’s expected routine once home, Alfieri expressed hope that with continued rehabilitation, he would soon return to his normal activities.

Throughout his hospital stay, Pope Francis remained informed about current events, both within the Church and politically, while continuing to engage in work.

“He is happy to be discharged,” Alfieri said, adding that doctors agreed “the best way to recover is to do so at home.”

Courtesy: Vatican News