Basics of Home Health Care

When considering home health care providers, ask if the agency:

1. Is Medicare-certified. That means it is approved to provide services to patients with Medicare.
2. Offers the specific health care services you need (i.e., physical therapy).
3. Meets your special needs (like language preference), if necessary.
4. Offers the personal care services you need (like help bathing, dressing, and using the bathroom).
5. Offers the support services you need (like help with laundry, cooking, shopping, or housekeeping).
6. Has staff available to provide the type and hours of care your doctor ordered, and can start when you need them.
7. Is recommended by your hospital discharge planner, doctor, or social worker.
8. Has staff available at night and on weekends for emergencies.
9. Explained what your insurance will cover, and what you must pay out-of-pocket.
10. Has letters from satisfied patients, family members, and doctors that testify to the home health staff providing good care.

For all of the above, the answer is a very healthy "Yes!" with VNA.