What is home health?

• “Home health” refers to medical services provided at the patient’s residence. The residence can be a private home or assisted living facility. The home health services typically include skilled nursing, physical therapy, occupational therapy, medical social work and in-home aide. Home health may also include medical equipment and supplies.

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Who pays for home health?

• Medicare, Medicaid and many private insurance plans have a home health benefit. A brief summary is listed under Paying for Home Health. Additionally, our expert financial staff can help you understand your coverage provisions and will contact your insurance company to determine your specific benefits.

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Who can receive home health?

• Individuals of all ages and with a variety of health care needs can receive home health services. As the name implies, home health is for people who require assistance from a health care professional at home. Medicare, Medicaid and insurance companies require medical orders from a physician before care can be initiated.

• If you feel that you or a loved one may benefit from home health, we are only a phone call away. A member of our experienced staff can work with you and your physician to determine if home health is right for you.

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What are the different screening processes the staff must complete?

• thorough interview process

• state and federal background checks

• drug testing

• comprehensive personal and professional reference checks

• submission of current license

• competency evaluations

• complete health assessment

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Are the home health workers insured while coming to my home?

• Yes. All staff members are fully insured. In addition, all are fully bonded against theft.

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Who chooses which home health agency to use?

• You do, in consultation with your physician. According to Medicare, "a patient is free to choose any qualified agency offering him/her services."

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What is the Medicare “Homebound” requirement for home health?

 

The final Home Health rule for 2012 modified the language as follows:

• The individual has a condition due to an illness or injury that restricts his or her ability to leave their place of residence except the aid of supportive devices such as crutches, canes, wheelchairs, and walkers; the use of special transportation; or the assistance of another person; OR if leaving home is medically contraindicated;
  AND

• The individual does not have to be bedridden to be considered "confined to the home". However, the condition of the patient should be such that there exists a normal inability to leave home AND consequently, leaving home would require a considerable taxing effort