What is home health care?

Home health care services include in-home nursing and therapy services for those recovering from illness or surgery, or managing a chronic condition. Services are provided by licensed professionals based on individual needs. Our skilled home healthcare services focus on helping you achieve your optimal levels of health and independence wherever you call home, while helping to reduce unplanned re-hospitalizations and emergency room visits.

What services are offered?

Preferred Care offers Skilled Nursing, Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Speech Therapy, Medical Social Work and Personal Care Services.

Who is eligible for home health care?

In order to be eligible for home health care under the Medicare Benefit, you must:

• Have a physician prescribe home health care

• Need either skilled nurse care on an intermittent basis or therapy services (i.e. physical/occupational/speech therapy)

• Be restricted in your ability to leave home (“homebound”) and your homebound status must be certified by a physician.

In the event you are unsure if you or a loved one qualifies for home healthcare. Give us a call, we would be happy to assist you in determining your eligibility.

What does “homebound” mean for home health care?

Homebound essentially means a normal inability to leave home and doing so would require considerable and taxing effort. Medicare states you would be considered “homebound” or “confined to your home” if you have trouble leaving your home without help (like using a cane, wheelchair, walker, or crutches; special transportation; or help from another person) because of an illness or injury, or leaving your home isn’t recommended because of your condition.

You can leave the home as often as you need for medical treatment that cannot be provided in the home. 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).

How often can I expect someone to visit me at home?

On your initial visit, an assessment is completed. Based on the findings of this assessment, your physicians’ orders, and your care preferences, a Plan of Care is developed. Furthermore, Preferred Care has members of its Care Coordination Team on call 24/7 to assist with any unplanned needs.

My physician is ordering home health care for me. Can I choose Preferred Care?

Absolutely! Your right to choose your home health care involved is a right that is protected by law. Just ask your doctor or hospital discharge planner about home healthcare services, and let them know you’d like to use Preferred Care, if you prefer our services. We’d be honored to serve you.

Who pays for home health care provided by Preferred Care?

Provided that you meet the Medicare eligibility requirements, your home health care is covered 100% by Medicare. With no co-pays, out-of-pocket costs, or deductibles.

How long does it take to coordinate and set up home health care?

Upon acceptance of a patient referral, Preferred Care guarantees the scheduling of a visit within the first 48 hours.