Thanks to advances in medical knowledge and technology, more and more care can be given at home. Being cared for at home instead of a hospital, assisted living facility or nursing home has many advantages, including less expense, and living more comfortably in your own surroundings.

When exploring the idea of home health care, consider:

• The amount and complexity of the care you need now and in the foreseeable future.
• Whether the care can be provided in your home.
• The financial situation. If your health insurance doesn't pay for home care, and if you don't have Long Term Care Insurance that does, see if you can negotiate payment. If you have to pay, you may be able to obtain volunteer services and free or low cost medical equipment.
• Whether to obtain home care through a home care agency or hire people on your own. Medicare and Medicaid require use of a certified agency. Other insurance may allow you to hire your own people.

Going through a reputable private agency is more expensive than hiring someone directly, but it can save you headaches. Agency aides are bonded (insured against theft, loss and injury in a home), you don't have to pay their taxes as an employer, and the agency provides replacement workers quickly, if necessary.

There are time tested methods of locating and choosing a health care agency or workers, as well as maximizing use of either.

If things don't work out, complain. If that doesn't do it, change agencies or workers.

If care at home is not possible, consider other venues for receiving long term care.

Please share how this information is useful to you. 0 Comments