Home Health Care services are delivered in the home to an individual who does not require or want institutional care.  The services may be provided by a visiting nurse agency, home health agency, hospital or organized community group and may include nursing, speech, occupational or physical therapy, and homemaker services.

Payment and billing arrangements are made with the individual agency.  Medicare or other insurance policies may cover some services.  It is important to make sure that your particular insurance company certifies the agency you are considering.  Older adults are able to receive care in their home to meet a variety of needs.  These services may be as basic as helping with home chores and meal preparation or as medically clinical as I.V. infusion therapies. It is for this reason that families need to have a clear understanding of what the older adult needs and what services you wish to contract with a given agency.

Questions to Ask Before Choosing Home Care Services:

• Does Medicare certify the agency?
• Does the agency have a contract with your insurance/HMO?
• Does the agency bill Medicare/insurance provider or is family responsible?
• What type of training, supervision and monitoring does it provide its staff?
• Does the agency develop a plan of care - how often is it reviewed and by whom?
• Does a nurse conduct an initial assessment? Is there an additional cost for this?
• Does the agency provide family with training on high-tech equipment in the home?
• Is there a 24-hour emergency contact for questions or complaints?
• How does the agency assure that staff are available for the requested times?
• How does the agency insure consistency of care providers?
• Is there a charge for canceling a scheduled day?  
• How does the agency screen their staff? Are criminal checks completed?

If you are hiring a home care worker not affiliated with an agency, it is important to:

• Check references.
• Check with any State Licensing Boards (e.g. Board of Nursing).
• Complete a criminal background check (e.g. Local Police, Sheriff, Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, Drivers license division).  
• Check with the IRS about tax issues.
• Have a back-up plan for when the worker is sick or on vacation.