Tuesday, September 07, 2010
   
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What is Home Care?

Home care provides a range of health services that are delivered at home, which is preferred by most people. Services can be delivered to recovering, disabled or chronically ill persons in need of medical, nursing or therapeutic treatment and/or assistance with the essential activities of daily living. To begin receiving home care or change providers, simply contact the agency directly. You can also voice your choice to your physician or hospital nursing home discharge planner- They will contact the agency you choose on your behalf and initiate the referral process for you.

How Do I Select The Right Agency?

Not every agency is the same - ask questions! Finding the right home care agency requires research, but it is time well spent.

A Medicare-certified agency is one that has met federal minimum requirements for patient care and financial management. An accredited agency is one that meets national industry standards, above and beyond Medicare requirements.

Certified/accredited agencies are required to provide clients with a "Patient's Bill of Rights" that outlines their rights and responsibilities of the providers, clients, and caregivers alike. They are also required to ensure that staff are adequately trained, complete Criminal Records Checks, maintain liability insurance, monitor client satisfaction, have an on-call RN and provide back-up for changes in service delivery.

Who Can Benefit From Home Care?

     A person who:

  • Is discharged from a hospital or nursing facility, but needs additional care and treatment.

  • Requires short-term assistance at home because of outpatient surgery or maternity-related incapacity.

  • Has a condition such as congestive heart failure, diabetes and muscular, nervous or respiratory disorders.

  • Is a medically fragile child with special  needs.

  • Needs assistance to live independently due to illness, disability or aging.