Types of Home Health Care Services
Home care can involve skilled nursing, therapy, medical equipment, or other specialized services. To qualify, a doctor must order the care and specify the needed services. Then, a home health agency staffed with nurses and other healthcare professionals can provide the care under the physician’s supervision. Other home healthcare providers include therapists, social workers, dietitians, and physical therapists. They may come to the patient’s house and perform therapy sessions, or they may test blood and urine samples at the patient’s home.
The cost of home healthcare services varies according to the complexity of a person’s needs. For example, someone who requires regular specialized therapy will likely have a higher cost structure than someone who simply requires assistance with daily tasks. The duration and frequency of the services also play a role in the costs. Occasional care, like a few hours of assistance each week, will be less expensive than around-the-clock live-in care.
A good place to start looking for a home healthcare service is by asking friends and family for recommendations. A doctor or other healthcare professional can also offer suggestions. Another important consideration is whether the home healthcare agency you’re considering is Medicare certified. This ensures that the home health agency meets certain Medicare-specific standards, including ensuring its staff is qualified to deliver skilled care. It also means the agency will notify you in advance of any items or services that Medicare won’t cover, so you can make an informed decision about your coverage options.
Other sources of funding for home care services include long-term care insurance, which provides coverage for many of the same expenses as nursing homes but often at a fraction of the cost. Some Medicare Advantage plans also offer coverage for home health services. Finally, Rent a Daughter offer volunteer home health aide services.