A 90-year-old woman needed home care after a stay at the hospital and at the SNF. His family worked to establish care with a knowledgeable and compassionate care coordinator. However, the coordinator definitely informed the family that Medicare simply doesn't cover home health care. While it's increasingly difficult to get home health aides covered by Medicare, this care is an integral part of the home health care benefit of Medicare.
If the triggering conditions described above are met, the beneficiary is eligible for coverage for Medicare home health care services. Under Medicare Part B, you are eligible for home health care if you are homebound and need specialized care, even if you haven't been hospitalized before. Medicare home health care is designed to provide specialized care, meaning that the services you need can only be provided by a licensed health professional. There is also no deductible.
The deductible is the amount you must pay for health care expenses before your health insurance begins to pay. The agencies that offer these services are called home care agencies and should not be confused with home health agencies that offer home health care services. Ask the home health agency to hold a meeting with the patient and family before any interruption or reduction in services to discuss whether the proposed measure is appropriate and whether care is still needed. Before you start getting home health care, the home health agency must tell you how much Medicare will pay.
With the many threats currently facing the Medicare program, the time has come to come together as partners and explore ways to advocate for comprehensive Medicare coverage, health equity and quality health care. Medicare covers 100% of the cost of home health care services, but there are a few things to keep in mind. Once your healthcare provider has certified your need for home health care, they will develop a care plan. Home health care includes a wide range of health and social services provided at home to treat illnesses or injuries. The agency must also tell you (both verbally and in writing) if Medicare won't pay for the items or services it provides and how much you'll have to pay for them. If you're thinking about getting home health care and are wondering if Medicare will cover it, you're in the right place.
