FAQ

What can I expect on the first home health care visit?

On the first visit, a nurse or therapist will conduct an initial evaluation. This thorough interview and evaluation is part of our coordinated approach to managing your overall health status. Our evaluation focuses on educating you in self-care management and partners with your doctor to promote disease prevention and proactive care, which includes the family or caregivers. This team approach facilitates an easier transition for you from a hospital or nursing facility to your home, and actively engages you and your caregivers in your health care.

Will a care plan be created just for me or my loved one?

Yes. After your doctor refers you to Covenant Connections Home Health Care, an CCHC clinician will come to your home to assess your needs. We will communicate with your doctor to discuss the assessment and work together to develop your personal plan of care. Our will implement your physician ordered plan of care and keep your doctor updated about your progress. If your condition or needs change, we'll collaborate with your doctor to review your plan of care and make any adjustments deemed necessary.

How often will my home health care visits be?

The frequency of home health care visits and the services provided are based on your doctor's orders in your personal plan of care. Your doctor may change your plan of care, increasing or decreasing the number of visits or services provided, in order to provide you with the best home health care for your needs.

What does homebound status mean?

Essentially, your condition should be such that there exists a "normal inability to leave home" and doing so would require considerable and taxing effort. Generally speaking, you would be considered homebound if you have a condition due to an illness or injury that restricts your ability to leave home without the aid of an assistive device (such as crutches, canes, walkers or wheelchairs), without the assistance of another person, or if leaving the home is medically inadvisable. You can leave the home as often as you need for medical treatment that cannot be provided in the home. Further, you are allowed brief and infrequent absences from the home for some non-medical reasons, such as an occasional trip to the barber/beauty shop, to attend church, or for unique family events (like a graduation).

Who pays for home health care services?

If you meet certain eligibility requirements, Medicare may pay for your covered home health care for as long as you're eligible and your doctor certifies that you need it. Additionally, your state's Medicaid program or your private insurance also may cover home health care, or some services that Medicare doesn't cover. Check with your state Medicaid program or insurance company to learn about their specific eligibility requirements

What qualifies as a home when home health care is being considered?

A patient's residence is wherever she makes her home. This may be her house, an apartment, a relative's home, a home for the aged, or some other type of institution. However, a hospital, skilled nursing facility (SNF) or intermediate care facility (ICF) is not considered the patient's home.

What is the difference between home care and home health care?

Home-care agencies perform household and personal care services, like preparing meals, cleaning, and helping with bathing or dressing. Home health care provides medical treatment for an illness or injury, with the goal of helping you recover, regain your independence and become as self-sufficient as possible. Home health care can also help you live with a chronic condition, like heart disease, COPD, or diabetes. Additionally, home health care can include some personal care services, like help bathing and dressing, as part of the plan of care ordered by your doctor.