Home health care agencies provide a variety of services for those whose needs have been documented by a doctor. To receive payment for these services, home health care agencies must submit billing and medical service paperwork to Medicare.
Instructions
1. Hire a home health care agency that has been approved by Medicare. Home health care agencies not approved by the Medicare program are not eligible to receive payment for services.
2. Review the types of care Medicare will pay for. Skilled nursing (registered nurse provides care), physical rehabilitation, speech language pathology, medical equipment and assistance from a home health aide (person without RN credentials) are services covered under Medicare. However, there are restrictions in the number of hours per week these services will be available to you. You may also have to pay a copay of 20 percent for medical equipment or additional services.
3. Review all billing paperwork provided by the home health care agency before it submits the paperwork to Medicare. It is your legal right to review this paperwork.
4. Pay the remainder of the costs for home health care services out of pocket or apply for Medicaid. To qualify for Medicaid, you must meet low-income standards or show extreme need. Medicaid programs vary from state to state. Contact your state's Medicaid program for more information.
5. File a Notice of Medicare Claim Determination if you are unsure about whether the costs of certain home health services or equipment will be paid through the Medicare program. A decision will be made by a committee and sent to you. You can appeal the decision if you choose. Contact your state's medical health counseling program for additional information.
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