Definitions

Some organizations use these terms interchangeably, but they are not the same. Here is a brief definition of each of these services:

Homecare is a supportive, non-medical service provided in the place of residence (home, retirement community, rehabilitation center, etc.) for the purpose of promoting and maintaining the individual's independence, well being, and quality of life. 

Home Health is a clinical, nursing or therapeutic service (or combination of) that is physician ordered and is provided in the place of residence (home, retirement community, rehabilitation center, etc.)

Services Provided

Depending on what agency you are working with you may see some crossover between the services provided. For example, some homecare agencies are also licensed in home nursing and provide wound care and other clinical services that you find in the home health model. Despite this, homecare and home health have distinct service offerings, and these are the types of services you can generally expect:

Homecare includes supportive / non-medical care to assist with the activities of daily living (ADL), and may include:

• Assistance with bathing/dressing
• Meal preparation
• Medication reminders
• Laundry / housekeeping
• Transportation / assistance running errands
• Incontinence care / assistance with toileting
• Companionship
  

Home Health services are clinical / medical and are performed by a CNA, skilled nurse or licensed therapist, and may include: 

• Wound care
• Health monitoring
• IV therapy / injections
• Skilled nursing
• Physical, occupational & speech therapy
• Disease management
• Pain management

Who Pays for Service?

This is perhaps the most common question when it comes to understanding home care and home health. Who pays for care services? Some agencies work with VA benefits and other financial providers, so be sure to ask for details when researching providers. 

Homecare is generally private pay, meaning the client or client's family arranges payment. Some long term care insurance covers the cost of home care, check with your insurance provider to confirm what's covered.

Home Health is generally covered by Medicare, provided you meet eligibility requirements and your doctor certifies that home health is needed. Your state's Medicaid program or private insurance may cover home health care, or some of the services that Medicare doesn't cover. Check with your state Medicaid program of insurance carrier to learn more about specific coverage and eligibility requirements. 

Setting Up Services

Now that you understand what options are available to you, the next step is to research various agencies in your area to set up services. Note that homecare services can be initiated at any time, while home health requires your physician's order to begin services. Here are a few things to consider when setting up services: 

Homecare is a growing industry, which means you have plenty of options when it comes to arranging care. Be sure to choose a licensed agency with a reputation for providing exceptional care. 

Home Health must be prescribed by your physician, however you have the right to select the home health provider of your choice. Not all agencies are the same, so be sure to do your due diligence when selecting a home health agency. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use both homecare and home health?

A: Yes! Home health and home care can be used simultaneously. In fact, home care is often used to support and supplement the care provided by home health. For example, the home health nurse can set up medications, and your caregiver can remind you to take them. 

LifeStyle Options carries both homecare and home nursing license, which means we can also provide some of the same nursing services offered through home health, as needed. 

Q: When is the best time to set up homecare services?

A: Most people do not begin researching or coordinating these services until the need is acute. Unfortunately, this can leave you scrambling to find resources at the last minute. Ideally, you should begin making home care arrangements when the activities of daily living first become challenging. With proper care, older adults can remain independent at home longer.

Home care is also a helpful option for those that have recently been discharged from the hospital, rehab center or long term care facility, ensuring that needs are met during the critical recovery process. 

Q: How often are home health services provided?

A: Home health needs are determined by the physician, and the services provided and frequency of care depends on the plan of care coordinated by your doctor. 

Homecare on the other hand can be scheduled at your convenience as often as care is needed. 

Q: Can I save money by using a private caregiver?