GETTING MEDICARE COVERED HEALTH SERVICES AT HOME

Medicare covers a variety of health care services that you can receive in the comfort and privacy of your home. These include intermittent skilled nursing care, physical therapy, speech-language pathology services, and occupational therapy.

To be eligible for home health services, you must be under a doctor's care and receive your services under a plan of care established and reviewed regularly by a physician. He or she also needs to certify that you need one or more home health services.

In addition, you must be homebound and have a doctor's certification to that effect. Being homebound means leaving your home isn't recommended because of your condition, or your condition keeps you from leaving without using a wheelchair or walker, or getting help from another person. Also, you must get your services from a home health agency that is Medicare-approved like Harbor Health Home Care.

If you meet the criteria, Medicare pays for covered home health services for as long as you are eligible and your doctor certifies that you need them.

Skilled nursing services are covered when they are given on a part-time or intermittent basis. In order for Medicare to cover such care, it must be necessary and ordered by your doctor for your specific condition. You must not need full-time nursing care.

Skilled nursing services are given by either a registered nurse or a licensed practical nurse under an RN's supervision. Nurses provide direct care and teach you and your caregivers about your care.

If your doctor decides you need home health care, you can choose from among the Medicare-certified agencies in your area like Harbor Health Home Care. If you need furthur information, please contact our office at 810-765-7144 or toll free at 888-418-2273.

source: www.times-standard.com