Home Health Care Questions

Why would I need home health services?

Home health care is appropriate for people of all ages and has been proven to be an efficient, cost effective form of care that helps people recover in the comfort of home. Typically, our patients are about to be discharged from a hospital, rehabilitation center or long-term care facility but need additional care to heal and recover; they have had a significant change in their medical condition; or they need education about their disease and instruction on how to best care for themselves. Home health care is prescribed by a physician and generally includes skilled services such as nursing; physicial, occupational or speech therapy; wound care; medical social work; and home health aids to assist with personal care.

Who pays for home health care?

Medicare, Medicaid, some commercial insurance plans and workman’s compensation pay for home health services if specific criteria are met. Some insurance may pay for part, but not all, of the services requested. Medicare regulations require that the individual be homebound; he or she must be leaving the home only infrequently (such as for medical appointments, worship, and special occasion activities) and must not be driving. VNA Plus staff is available to help determine coverage and benefits prior to setting up home health care; and can also help obtain the physician’s order necessary to begin services.

How do I get home health care started?

Home health services may be set up prior to leaving the hospital or facility; it is important to note that you have a choice about who provides your care and you may request that the discharge planner or social worker contact your preferred agency.

A physician, family member or the patient may also initiate service; feel free to call the VNA Plus office nearest you for more information or use our online referral form.

How long does home health care last?

Home health care is not meant to be long-term care; rather, it is intended to be provided for a limited period of time and on an intermittent (part time) basis. A nurse is available to our patients 24 hours a day for emergencies. Your care plan is designed specifically for you and will change according to your particular needs. VNA Plus staff visits only as often as necessary to help you progress in your recovery; and your physician is kept informed of your condition and any changes in your status. As you become able to meet your needs independently, services are discontinued.

For those who need some assistance to continue living at home safely–but no longer qualify for home health care–VNA Plus also offers private duty care  that is not covered by Medicare, Medicaid or most commercial insurance; some long-term care insurance and veterans’ programs provide benefits for private duty care. Please call Private Duty Services at 812-425-3561 or toll free, 800-326-4862 for more information.