What To Expect From A Home Health Care Provider

Often, when a person is hospitalized with a serious health condition or after an accident, they are prescribed home health care services by their doctor. This is a very important service, allowing them to recover from a medical or physical event in the comfort of their own homes. This can help them avoid being admitted to a hospital or other care facility, which is often more costly. It can also allow them to remain in their own home as long as possible, keeping them connected with loved ones, their community, and places of worship.

A physician will visit the patient in their home to assess their needs and develop a care plan. This will include a treatment regimen, along with goals that the patient and their family can work toward together. This care plan can include both medical and custodial home care services, depending on the individual's needs.

Home health care is provided by a variety of skilled professionals, including nurses and physical, occupational, and speech therapists. It can also include home health aides who provide non-medical care, such as bathing and meal preparation. A dietitian can also come to the home to conduct a nutritional assessment, and lab technicians can bring portable X-ray machines to the home for testing. Home health nurses can also give medication and teach the patient and family members how to administer it correctly.

When choosing a Northeast Ohio Home Health Care agency, it is best to choose one that is Medicare-certified. This means that they have met the minimum federal requirements for patient care and management. It is also wise to look into the state's licensing standards, as well. Some states have more stringent requirements, while others are lax.

In most cases, home health care is reimbursable by Medicare and private insurance plans. However, a Medicare Advantage plan may not cover this type of care.

What to Expect from a Home Health Care Provider

In addition to meeting the qualifications for being a home health aide, a healthcare worker must be dependable, organized, responsible, trustworthy, patient, and compassionate. They must be comfortable working in people's homes and respecting their rights, privacy, and traditions. They must be able to communicate effectively and understand their patients' needs.

In addition, home health aides must be licensed by their state. They should be able to assist with activities of daily living, such as bathing and dressing, and they should know how to monitor a patient's condition, such as checking blood pressure, temperature, and heart rate. They must also be able to coordinate with other caregivers and keep the doctor informed of a patient's progress. They should be familiar with local resources and can help a patient find support groups and other resources. They can also help a patient get medical equipment, such as a wheelchair or walker, if needed. Occasionally, home health agencies may offer transportation services to get the patient to and from appointments. This is especially helpful if the patient has trouble driving or is too sick to make it on their own.