FAQ #1
How does the process for receiving home health care services typically start?
Anyone can refer a patient for home health care but since a physician is required to facilitate orders most patients are referred by their physician during an office visit or by a facility such as a hospital after an unexpected visit to the emergency room or a planned surgery.
FAQ #2
Who pays for home health care services?
Medicare, Medicaid and most private insurers.
In some cases it may be necessary for patients to self-pay and arrange payments with their home health agency.
FAQ #3
What does “Homebound” mean?
Homebound means leaving your home isn’t recommended because of your current condition. Medicare further describes a person’s homebound status to mean that leaving the home for necessary reasons is a "taxing effort" on behalf of the patient. Your condition keeps you from leaving your home without assistance.
FAQ #4
What kind of services are provided?
A team of skilled professionals provide a multitude of services right in the home but most common are: skilled nursing care, home health aide (bathing, dressing, grooming), medical social worker services and physical, occupational and speech therapies.
FAQ#5
How long does home health care last?
The length of service depends on each patient’s diagnosis and needs as directed in their physician’s plan of care. Some patients require several weeks of care while others may remain on service for several months. Patients are discharged from home health care services when the individual goals on the plan of care are met.
FAQ #6
How often will someone from the home health care agency come to see me?
The frequency of visits from the home health care team will vary for each patient as it relates to their diagnosis and specific needs. The home health care team, along with the patient’s physician, develop a plan of care that assigns which team member will visit that patient and how often to provide the care required. The plan of care is often revised as patient progress is noted.
FAQ #7
How do I choose the right home health care agency?
Choosing a home health care agency is an important decision because care is being delivered in the privacy of one’s home. Home health care agencies can be accredited, licensed and certified. They should also provide the services the patient requires in the area the patient resides and work with the patient’s insurance provider. Our agency is licensed, Medicare/Medicaid certified and accredited by CHAP.