Home health care is being increasingly used to meet the demand for long-term care.
Home health care is provided by agencies, which vary in ownership, size, location, and services. To be certified, an agency must meet state licensing requirements and federal conditions for participation in Medicare. Such agencies provide skilled nursing care under the direction of referring physicians.
Nurses provide services under the supervision of a physician, who consults with them as changes in care are needed. Caring for patients at home requires communication among health care practitioners to ensure that patients are maintaining function and are progressing as expected. Few patients with a serious, chronic disorder can afford full home care even though most would prefer to remain at home.
Medicare covers some home care services for patients who are homebound, but it has certain requirements, which depend on the Medicare option chosen. Some private insurance companies cover some home health care services eg, infusion services for patients who are not homebound. Medicare requires that home health care agencies tell patients which services are reimbursable.
Home care services that are delivered are based on a detailed assessment Outcome and Assessment Information Set [OASIS] that is completed by a registered nurse or therapist when the patient is admitted to Medicare. Third-party payers are increasingly limiting personal services to control costs. Home health care agencies are directly reimbursed by Medicare, Medicaid, or private insurers.
Throughout my life, I have always had a job.
Since I was 16, I was working somewhere part-time and earning my own money even if it was minimum wage Here are questions we recommend asking each in-home care agency you speak with:. Reduce site Text Enlarge site Text. Free Guide for Choosing In-home Care. How to Choose Care With a little thought and preparation, any family can start an open, honest dialog that can lead to a plan that everyone agrees to and understands. What is in-home care?
What is hospice care? What is skilled home care? Plan Ahead As elders age, family members are frequently involved in providing support and assistance. Family Discussion It is highly important for the family to know and understand the wishes of the loved one who will receive in-home care. Learn Familiarize yourself with available in-home care agencies.
Here are questions we recommend asking each in-home care agency you speak with: Is your business licensed by the state?
Are all of your licenses up to date? Are your caregivers properly trained?
What is the normal duration of training and what is taught? What certifications are required for caregivers to have? Are your caregivers insured? Can I get references from or speak with local patients, hospitals or social workers? Are there client reviews of your business available? Once choices have been narrowed down, questions can be asked. What are the costs associated with your in-home care? Is there a contract or is service on a month-to-month basis? Are there managers that oversee the quality my loved one will receive?
Is there someone to report to if I see a problem in the care provided? What is the protocol for emergencies? Are there medical professionals helping to create a care plan? How is patient confidentiality handled? How is care documented? Is there a way for family members to monitor care? Are monthly reports or meetings offered? How is billing handled? Is it done on a weekly or monthly basis?