FAQs: Home Health Care Frequently Asked Questions

What is Home Care?

Home Health Care is skilled nursing care and certain other health care services (such as Physical Therapy) that you get inside your home for the treatment of an illness or injury.

Who uses Home Care?

1. Persons being discharged from the hospital that are not fully recovered.
2. Persons with chronic conditions who require frequent monitoring and can not meet their needs alone.
3. Persons with a terminal disease, who need skilled and personal care, pain management, and emotional support.
4. Persons with limited mobility who need assistance with activities of daily living.
5. Families who need respite from care giving & emotional support in dealing with a loved one who requires special care.
6. Persons who have a change in medical condition or diagnosis.

Why should you use Home Care?

Home Care allows for early discharge from hospitals and prevents or postpones institutionalizations. Home Care nurses are trained to be the “eyes and ears” of the physician allowing the patient to stay in the comfort and convenience of their own home. Home Care provides quality one on one care tailored to meet the needs of each individual patient. Home care is more cost effect when compared to hospitals or nursing home placement. Home Care fosters keeping families together and the pride and independence every patient can retain by staying at home.

Who pays for Home Care?

1. Most commonly, Medicare will pay for home care. However, certain criteria MUST BE MET! (Contact a member of our staff for more information)
2. Private Insurance – You have private insurance which covers the costs associated with home care.

How do I choose a home care provider?

Finding the best home care provider to meet your individual needs deserves a little research, but it is time well spent. The quality of care and competency of personnel are areas of primary concern. You have the right to choose ANY home health agency who is QUALIFIED to provide the services you need. Here are some questions to consider when deciding which home care provider would be best for you:

1. What services does the agency offer?
2. How long has the agency been serving the community?
3. Does your physician know the reputation of the provider?
4. Is the provider certified by Medicare? (Only Medicare-certified agencies can provide services covered by Medicare)
5. Is the provider licensed? (In Texas, any agency providing personal assistance or skilled services must be licensed by the Texas Department of Aging & Disability Services as a Home & Community Support Service Agency.)
6. How long has the Clinical Supervisor been with the company?
7. Does the provider have written statements describing its services, eligibility requirements, fees, patient rights, confidentiality, complaint procedures, hours of service, and emergency arrangements?
8. How does the provider select its employees? (Does the provider ensure that its workers are functioning under written personnel policies, clinical protocols, and continuity of care?
9.  Does the agency schedule admission and regular visits when needed on the weekend?
10. Is the agency a member of a state and/or national home care organization? (Association membership is an indication that the agency is continually informed and actively involved in the home care industry.)

How Do I Get Home Care Services?

Referral for home care services can come from many sources including the hospital, rehab. facilities, physician, or a family member or friend.  To inquire about our services contact us and one of our knowledgeable  staff members will guide you through our services and other community resources.