Differentiating In-Home Care and Home Health Care in Springfield Missouri

During conversations with caregivers, home health agencies in Springfield Missouri are often asked about the differences between home health care and home care for seniors. Home care services are non-medical in nature and are typically provided to help seniors and those with disabilities. On the other hand, home health care in Springfield Missouri is often used when a senior has just come out of the hospital or requires skilled therapy and nursing services. Here, families can learn about these two types of senior care.

What’s Involved in Home Health Care?

Therapists and nurses who work for agencies are certified to provide home health services. A person receiving care from a home health aide in Springfield Missouri may need help with:

• Wound care
• IV care and injections
• Management of medications
• Speech, occupational, and physical therapy

Such services are often provided after a patient has been hospitalized or has had surgery for a serious illness or injury.

Payment

Most agencies that provide in home care in Springfield Missouri are reimbursed by private insurers, Medicaid and Medicare, with private payment being less common. For Medicare to cover home health care, a patient must meet the following criteria:

• They must be regarded as homebound
• The services must be medically necessary
• The patient must have a doctor’s orders and a care plan

Home Care Explained

By comparison, home care is designed to help older and disabled adults perform daily activities in a safe way. It is sometimes referred to as personal or non-medical care. Home care companions and aides can provide services that foster independence, and they can help with grooming, dressing, bathing, grocery shopping, meal prep, and housekeeping. While some programs can help families pay for respite care in Springfield Missouri, most services are privately paid.

Moving From the Hospital to the Home

If a family member will be leaving the hospital and returning home, a combination of home care and home health care may meet their needs. Combining these services can allow a person to go through recovery and rehabilitation in the comfort and privacy of their own home. Call today for additional information.