Here are the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about home health care.
Can I still visit a hospital if necessary?
Of course. Getting home health care in no way prevents you from seeking medical aid at a hospital if necessary. Your doctors and nurses can coordinate to make sure you are receiving the appropriate treatment, whether at home or in a medical facility.
Is home health care the same as hospice care?
No. Hospice care refers specifically to patients who are facing terminal illnesses who are no longer seeking treatment. Western States Home Health Care Agency, Inc., does not provide hospice care. Though hospice patients can also be treated in-home, we provide health care to patients who expect to recover from acute illnesses, or need help managing chronic illnesses.
What kinds of services are available in home health care?
Almost all the same services that are available in a hospital are available in home health care. The main difference is that in a hospital, doctors and nurses are much closer at hand. Plus, hospitals have the capability for continuous medical monitoring.
If your condition isn’t severe enough to warrant a hospital stay, then remaining in your home makes sense. Medical personnel can still check your vitals, administer medication, and develop treatment plans. You can also call on the services of specialists, including physical and occupational therapists, speech-language pathologists, and home health aides.
Who is eligible for home health care?
Anyone in need can receive home health care. Some of the most common types of patients we see are elderly or disabled individuals, people with chronic illnesses, people suffering from dementia, depression, or recovering from a stroke, people undergoing out-of-hospital recovery, and even people who are mostly well but need regular therapy or help around the home.
Do you accept insurance?
Yes. Many insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, cover the costs of home health care. Contact us for more information on whether we accept your particular insurance plan.