Recovering from a debilitating illness or taking care of someone who is very ill can be time consuming and difficult. Obtaining outside help to get through a life-altering event may be necessary. Using the services of home health care nursing can offer time off from taking care of a loved one and provide services for individuals who are otherwise unable to obtain the medical services they need.
What is Home Health Care?
Home health care is a service that covers a variety of health and social services. The National Association of Health Care describes the services as those made available to individuals who are chronically or terminally ill, disabled, or in need of some type of medical assistance or therapy. These services are provided for individuals who need ongoing assistance that can't be provided by a family member.
Nursing Care Certification
Home health nursing care is provided by registered nurses who are either certified by the National Association for Home Care, provided by hospice, Medicare or work independently through a registry or employment agency specializing in home health care. Registries are not necessarily government regulated or licensed and aren't required to check the backgrounds of the nursing staff they employ.
Services
Home health care nurses provide services such as administering medication, assessing the patient's needs, changing bandages, developing a home health schedule and teaching families how to take care of the individual's daily needs. The nurse works in conjunction with the patient's physician, carrying out orders and ordering needed supplies and services, such as physical therapy, mental health consultations or social services. Medicare.gov provides Home Health Compare, a service that helps individuals obtain information about Medicare-certified home health care services and agencies.
Who Pays for Home Health Care Nursing?
Depending on the individual situation, the patient may pay directly for nursing services or the family may be able to obtain assistance from a public organization or through their health insurance. If the person qualifies for Hospice care, services are usually provided whether the patient or family is able to pay or not. Medicaid, Medicare and community programs such as the American Cancer Society help to provide funds to support individuals who need home health care nursing.
How To Find Home Health Care Services
Patient's getting ready for discharge from the hospital or other medical facility will be assessed by their physician and the discharge nurse to determine what home health care is required. They may be able to provide the services directly or connect the patient with the appropriate agency to provide follow-up care.
