The search for in-home care can be intimidating. There are several models of home health care that offer different services and payment options. In this post, we’ll help you define these models so you can choose the right program of care for you or your loved ones.
Private Duty Home Care can be medical or non-medical in-home care and is paid for directly by the client. Private duty services are basically any supportive type services. They run the gamut from errands to transportation to companionship to personal care to nursing. Private duty services are typically paid directly by the patient or his or her family members. Certain long-term care insurance policies, workers’ compensation and armed services funding may cover private duty services pending specific qualifications of the agency and policies.
Medicare Home Health is usually referred to as “Home Health Care” and the term refers to Medicare-certified agencies whose in-home care services are paid for by Medicare. These services are reimbursement-driven, meaning that the patient has to fit into a specific category for which care is reimbursed by Medicare.
Home Health Care is skilled nursing and certain other health care services that one receives in the home for treatment of an illness or injury. Medicare covers some of home health care costs only if specific parameters are met.
Hospice Care is specialized care designed to provide comfort and support to patients and their families when an illness no longer responds to treatments. Hospice neither prolongs life nor hastens death. Hospice caregivers can offer specialized medical care, including pain management. Hospice care can be provided in the home or in the hospital, but someone must be with the patient at all times. Most hospice care programs accept patients who have a life expectancy of 6 months or less and who have been referred by a physician. Hospice coverage is offered by most private insurance providers and through Medicare.
Medicaid Home and Community-based Care is intended to provide services for those who cannot afford to pay for care. Coverage criteria is determined by the state and recipients are not required to be homebound or ill in order to receive services, unlike Medicare-reimbursed home care.
If you need help deciphering your in-home care options, contact the staff at Occazio Home Care at 1.855.622.2946 (1.855.OCCAZIO)or homecare@occazio.com.
