Eligibility
Patients will be accepted based on a reasonable expectation that their medical, nursing, rehabilitative, and social needs can be effectively met at home. To qualify for home health services, patients must also meet the following criteria:
Be homebound
Leaving home requires a considerable and taxing effort.
Require skilled care
This includes either skilled nursing on an intermittent basis (beyond routine blood draws), physical therapy, speech-language pathology, or continued occupational therapy.
Be under the care of a physician
A doctor must oversee your treatment.
Require temporary care
Home health services are designed for short-term medical needs. Most insurance plans do not cover long-term home health care.
Have a physician-established care plan
Your care plan must be created and periodically reviewed by a physician.
Have a safe home environment
The patient’s residence must be safe for care delivery. If conditions are hazardous, alternative arrangements may be necessary.
For Medicare, Medicare Advantage/Managed Care, or Medicaid patients:
A Face-to-Face Encounter with a physician is required within 90 days prior to or 30 days after the start of care. This encounter must relate to the primary reason for home health admission.