Home Health Care - A Cost-Effective Alternative To Hospitalization

Home health care is an effective and cost-efficient alternative to hospitalization. It helps patients recover from illness or injury and improves their ability to perform daily tasks. It also allows individuals to remain in their homes, surrounded by loved ones and familiar surroundings, rather than having to move into a nursing home or adult foster care facility. Home health care is provided by skilled medical professionals, including nurses and physical, occupational and speech therapists. A physician’s order is needed to start home health services. The patient and home health care team then develop a detailed plan of care. The frequency of visits varies and services are tailored to the patient’s specific needs. Home health aides help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing and eating. Medical social workers provide counseling and help the patient find community resources.

Often, people needing home health care have a long-term condition that requires ongoing monitoring and/or treatment. This may include chronic diseases such as heart failure, COPD, ALS and HIV/AIDS. People with severe illnesses or injuries, such as stroke, spinal cord injury and amputations may also need home health care to manage pain and assist with rehabilitation.

Medicare, Medicaid and private insurance typically cover home health care. The amount paid depends on the type of coverage and the level of care needed. A physician must write a prescription for home health care to be covered by Medicare. Most patients who receive home health care have “homebound” status, which means their medical condition prevents them from leaving the house on a regular basis without assistance or using special equipment, such as a wheelchair or walker (U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services).

If you think your loved one needs Northeast Ohio Home Health Care, it’s important to get referrals from friends and family members who have used a home health agency themselves. You can also ask your doctor or geriatric care manager for recommendations. Many home health agencies have registries where you can see caregiver profiles that detail their skills, areas of expertise and past experiences. Then, you can choose the right caregiver for your loved one.

The responsibilities of family caregivers are often overwhelming. Home health care can support a patient and their family by providing respite for a few hours or days a week. This can allow a caregiver to attend to other responsibilities, such as shopping, errands or attending social and family events.

Choosing the best home health care provider for your loved one can be difficult, but with careful research you can make an informed decision. The benefits of home health care can be significant, allowing your loved one to stay at home and maintain their independence. With the proper planning and support from a knowledgeable home health care professional, you can rest assured that your loved one is receiving the best possible care at home.