4 Myths About Home Health Care

As our loved ones grow older many need extra support to carry on. There are many types of in-home care that can help. Here are some common myths about home health care, and the facts to help you decide if home health could be an option for you.

Home Health Care is Expensive
Home health is covered by Medicaid, Medicare, and many private insurance companies, if you meet the eligibility requirements. Many confuse home health with other types of in-home health services, such as private personal home care, however those are often paid out-of-pocket. These services are different from home health care, which is a very affordable option for at-home health care if you qualify.

Only Bedbound Patients Can Receive Home Health Care
Many individuals confuse Medicare’s homebound requirement with being bedbound. Patients do however have to be homebound for Medicare to reimburse for home health services. Homebound usually means, that you normally are unable to leave your home without assistance, and that, if you can leave for brief periods, it requires a very taxing effort. You do not have to be bedbound (unable to get out of bed) to receive home health care.

Only Very Ill Patients Can Receive In-Home Care
Home health agencies do treat people with serious, chronic illnesses however, they also treat individuals recovering from a surgery, or illness. For example, your doctor might order home health after you are discharged from a hospital or rehab facility. They may also choose to order occupational or physical therapy to assist after hip surgery or a stroke. A home health agency can also teach proper medication management or notice symptoms that can lead to more serious issues later.

Family Can Help, I don’t need an Agency
While home health care providers will not replace family caregivers, they can offer an additional layer of support. For example, nurses are trained medical professionals who can provide wound care, catherization and other services most family members are not qualified to provide. A home health agency also provides support and education for your caregiver, who may be feeling overwhelmed.