Home health services, or skilled care is part of a doctor’s treatment plan which means the patient must have a prescription or an order for home health services. Skilled services include nursing, physical therapy, occupational therapy and speech therapy.
In most cases home health services are temporary but could extend after the patient’s visits have been exhausted. Visits are determined by the initial home health order and or the patient’s insurance coverage. Medicare, Medicare Advantage, Commercial plans and Medicaid cover these services.
Home care consists of non-medical care provided in the client’s home by trained professionals. It includes custodial care for elderly people and assistance with activities of daily living such as eating, bathing, and providing medication reminders. Services can also include transportation to doctors appointments, grocery shopping and more.
Although these services are generally used by the elderly, new moms often take advantage of these services post partum.
Hours can vary from two hours each day or 24 hours a day.
Hospice care is for a terminally ill person who’s expected to have six months or less to live.
Public and private insurance covers hospice. However, you should check with your health plan for specifics.
When you conduct a community resources search using our tool, you will find listings for state, regional and city agencies on aging in your area.
If these agencies are available in your area, you will discover non-profit organization contacts that serve the elderly.