FAQ Home Health Care

What is Home Health Care?

Home healthcare encompasses a wide range of medical care and assistance, the goal being to restore each patient to full health and independence. A team of skilled professionals and administrators provides specialized care within the patients’ homes under the direction of a physician. Services may include nursing care, rehabilitative therapy and assistance with personal care. Physicians often order home care after hospitalization or after a period of general mental instability.

Who qualifies for Home Health care?

Typically, individuals who meet the definition of homebound, under the care of a physician, and in need of intermittent skilled nursing or therapy services might qualify.

Who pays for Home Health?

Medicare, Medicaid, private insurance, and out-of-pocket payments are common sources of funding for Home Health. Coverage depends on the insurance policy and the nature of the care needed.

What services are provided in Home Health?

This can include skilled nursing, physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech-language therapy, medical social services, Post-Surgery or Hospital Discharge Patients, Medication Management, Diabetes Management, Alzheimer’s , Dementia and more.

How often will a healthcare professional visit?

Frequency of visits depends on the patient’s needs and the care plan established by their physician.

How long does Home Health last?

The duration varies based on the patient’s health needs and progress. It can be short-term (following surgery) or long-term for chronic conditions.

Do I need a referral for Home Health?

A physician’s referral is required to start receiving Home Health services.

Who oversees the care provided in Home Health?

Care is usually overseen by a registered nurse or therapist in collaboration with the patient’s physician.

Can I choose my Home Health provider?

Yes, patients typically have the right to choose their Home Health care agency, but it’s essential to ensure they meet all regulatory and licensing requirements.

Is Home Health safe?

A reputable home health care providers follow strict protocols to ensure patient safety, including background checks of their staff and continuous training.

How is the quality of Home Health agencies measured?

Agencies can be evaluated based on accreditation, state licensing, Medicare certification, patient reviews, and outcome and assessment data.

Will my personal information be kept confidential?

Yes, Home Health providers are required to maintain the confidentiality of patient information, adhering to HIPAA regulations.

FAQ Personal
Assistance Services (PAS)

How do I find the right caregiver for my loved one?

When looking for the right help and out about the values a home care provides. Values should be clear, consistent, and client-focused to find out the best fit for you or your loved one.

When looking for the right help, ask about the values a homecare provides. Can we get occasional help?

The great thing about home care is that NEEDS can be personalized to suit the patient’s needs.

How soon can we start?

As soon as an appointment is scheduled to evaluate the patient and his/her needs.

FAQ Hospice

What is Hospice?

Hospice care focuses on the comfort and quality of life for patients with terminal illnesses, rather than curative treatments.

Who is eligible for Hospice?

Patients diagnosed with a terminal illness with a life expectancy of six months or less.

Where is Hospice care provided?

Hospice care can be provided in various settings, including a patient’s home, a hospice facility, hospitals, nursing homes, and other long-term care facilities

Who pays for Hospice?

Medicare, Medicaid, and most private insurance plans offer Hospice benefits. Additionally, many hospice organizations offer financial assistance or care based on ability to pay.

What services are provided in Hospice?

Services can include medical care, pain management, emotional and spiritual support, counseling, respite care for families, and more.

How does Hospice manage pain and other symptoms?

Hospice professionals are skilled in managing pain and symptoms with medications, therapies, and other methods.

Can a patient keep their personal physician while in Hospice?

Yes, many Hospice programs encourage patients to maintain their relationship with their personal physicians.

What happens if a patient lives longer than six months while on Hospice?

If the patient’s condition stabilizes or improves, they might be discharged from Hospice. However, if they continue to decline, the eligibility can be re-evaluated and extended.

How is Hospice different from Palliative care?

While both focus on comfort and symptom relief, Palliative care can be pursued at any stage of an illness, while Hospice is typically reserved for the final months of life.

Can treatments be continued while on Hospice?

Hospice focuses on comfort and quality of life. Curative treatments might be stopped, but some treatments that provide comfort can continue.

Can someone leave Hospice care?

Yes, patients can leave hospice care and return to curative treatments if they wish or if their condition improves.

How does one start the process of getting into Hospice?

A referral from a physician is needed, followed by an assessment from the Hospice Team.