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Home care encompasses a broad range of health and social services that are delivered directly to a patient at home. Services are available for people in need of assistance with the essential activities of daily living (ADLs) such as eating, bathing, dressing, and carrying out basic household duties. Aid is also available for patients who are in the process of recovery, disabled, and chronically or terminally ill people who require medical or therapeutic treatment.
Home care services are typically provided by home care organizations. Home health agencies supply skilled and highly supervised Medicare-certified care through licensed and regulated professionals.
Thanks to these professionals, a wide range of medical and non-medical services is available through home care. Providers also offer therapy options that can be carried out by a variety of professionals, paraprofessionals, and volunteers. While services for the treatment of medical conditions must be prescribed by a physician, supportive services–such as those offered by companions and volunteers–do not require a physician’s clearance.
Under a nurse’s care, patients may receive injections and intravenous therapy, as well as treatment for wounds. Physical therapists (PTs) rehabilitate patients who need to restore their mobility and strength. Similarly, occupational therapists (OTs) instruct patients in the use of specialized equipment and techniques to improve their ADL functions. Social workers, speech therapists, and dietitians also provide home care services. Home health aides assist patients with ADLs, while homemakers perform light chores to help maintain a patient’s home, but do not offer direct, hands-on personal care.
Under public and private third-party payers, such as Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Administration, and commercial health insurance companies, patients may be entitled to certain services offered by home health agencies. Home care services not covered under any of these plans must be paid for out of pocket.
The 2005 MetLife Market Survey of Nursing Home and Home Care Costs found the average hourly rate to be $19 for home health aides and $17 for homemakers/companions.
The American Association of Homes and Services for the Aging found that 36 percent of long-term care spending is paid for by private pay providers, 17 percent by Medicare, and 47 percent by Medicaid.
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