Home health care is the oldest type of health care. While there are many types of home health care providers, if you need skilled care, home health care agencies will usually be the ones to provide it. Home health care services may be provided by various health care workers, such as therapists, social workers, home care aides and nurses, though most agencies limit their scope to nursing and one or two other services.
Instructions
Steps
1. Choose a licensed agency. Most states require that agencies be licensed and review them regularly, according to the Mayo Clinic. You can usually get access to the reviews through your state health department.
2. Select an accredited home health care agency. Independent groups such as the Joint Commission, an independent organization that evaluates and accredits health care organizations, review and accredit home health care agencies that request it. Review the results of the last survey taken of the agency you are interested in.
3. Pick an agency that comes highly recommended. Ask the agency for a list of doctors and other health care professionals, as well as clients, and then follow up with those on the list for their impression and experience of the particular agency. In addition, ask family friends and doctors for recommendations. Ask for references for any workers that come into your home, as well as for the agency.
4. Hire an agency that is certified by Medicare. If you or the loved one seeking care are older than 65 or disabled, Medicare may cover the costs of home health agencies. However, Medicare will only pay for home health care by an agency it has certified. These agencies meet federal requirements for health care and are subject to reporting.
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