There are many similarities between home health and hospice care. But you should know the differences in these forms of care when considering them for yourself or a loved one. You need to be able to make an informed choice based on what you need.
Not sure of the differences between the two? Let’s compare and contrast them in this article.
Home Health and Hospice Care Definitions:
There are a few essential differences between these two types of care that you should be aware of. Home health care handles patient rehabilitation. Home health services are most often used after surgery to improve a patient’s physical health and abilities.
With hospice care, the focus is on supporting sick patients. Most of the time, these patients are terminally ill. The care providers work hard to provide comfort and peace to the patient during this time in their life.
About Home Health:
With home health, the care is brought right to the patient’s house. It’s a good option for those who only need care from time to time. For example, a home health patient may require physical therapy. The nurse will also keep a record of the patient’s progress.
Home health is often prescribed to patients after accidents and surgeries. To receive this form of treatment, the patient must not be able to leave the home. This form of treatment can go on as long as it is needed.
What You Pay For
With home health care, patients are often required to pay for their medical supplies, medicines, and any therapy equipment. Additionally, the costs will be higher if the patient needs to be moved out of the home for their treatment.
Medicare benefits can be used to cover some out-of-pocket costs for home health care when a doctor has certified that they are medically necessary.
How Long Care Lasts
The length of care depends on the patient, their therapy goals, and their progress.
About Hospice Care
Home hospice care is also recommended by a doctor. The most significant difference is that this option is offered to very sick patients, usually to provide comfort towards the end of someone’s life. Most hospice patients have a prognosis of six months or fewer.
This form of care also is offered at home. Hospice experts work alongside the patient’s caregiver to provide the care. However, additional professionals can step in to offer treatment or care when required.
Medicare requires that the hospice offers three types of care:
- Respite care
- Inpatient care
- Continuous care
What You Pay For
Medicare also provides coverage for home hospice care, provided that the care was set up by your hospice medical team. More services are included with hospice care than home health care. For instance, you don’t have to pay for doctors and nursing services, durable medical equipment, therapy, and other items. Additionally, you can receive support through counseling and spiritual guidance. A small copay applies to prescription and outpatient medication for pain and symptom management.
How Long Care Lasts
The care for a hospice patient lasts at least six months, although it can go on for much longer if a medical professional certifies that the patient has a terminal illness.
Final Thoughts
If you have any questions, be sure to reach out to us by calling 385-422-2500 or emailing us atrrahlf@youroasisadvisor.com. We’d love to discuss your options and determine what form of care would work the best for you and your family.