Frequently Asked Questions
What is home care?
Home care is an umbrella term for a broad range of health care services provided in a person’s place of residence. “Residence” may mean own home, assisted living or long-term care facility. Often, the person may be safely and effectively treated at home but treatment requires the assistance of a health care professional.
Examples of care provided at home include:
- Home Health Care
- Private Duty shift care (RNs, LPNs/LVNs, personal care aides, homemaker services)
- Respiratory Therapy/Home Medical Equipment
- Home Infusion Therapy
What is home health care?
Individuals requiring “skilled” medical care may obtain these services from a Medicare certified agency referred to as a home health care agency. Home health care is often required after an injury, surgery or illness. The care must be medically necessary. Care is directed by the patient’s physician through written orders to the home health care agency. Care is provided by a nurse; physical, occupational or speech therapist; medical social worker or home health aide. These professionals assist the patients in reaching their recovery goals and patients are discharged from services when goals are met.
Who qualifies for home health care?
Home health care is for those individuals who are Medicare eligible, have a need for skilled services and are considered to be “homebound”. Medicare describes homebound as requiring a taxing effort for the individual to leave their home. That is not to say the patient cannot attend church or leave the home for periods of time, but rather that the patient cannot leave their home easily and requires the assistance of another person.
Will Medicare or other insurance pay for home health care?
Home health care is fully covered by Medicare with no out-of-pocket costs. Most insurance policies typically provide coverage for home health care.
How can I learn more?
The link below will provide additional information: