MINNEAPOLIS — A pilot program in the Twin Cities area sends firefighters to the homes of patients recently discharged from the hospital to see if they’re having any problems.

The project, which begins in May, involves Park Nicollet Methodist Hospital in St. Louis Park and firefighters in Edina, Minneapolis, Richfield, Eden Prairie, Minnetonka and Hopkins.

Firefighters had a recent test run with a 90-year-old woman who was discharged after a bout with bronchitis and respiratory issues. They dropped by her home in Minnetonka the day after she left Methodist Hospital, took her blood pressure, talked about her new medication and checked her smoke detectors.

Reports say the visit requires the patient’s consent. Fairview Southdale Hospital in Edina is discussing a similar program.