Different Home Recovery Services

Catastrophic illness will affect most Americans at some time in their lives.  Many times, even though discharged from the hospital, you may need in home nursing care for some period of time.  Major medical insurance offers financial assistance for home recovery services.  Knowing what home recovery services there are available is important to making an educated decision.

Home recovery services are offered by insurance and many County of Health or Department of Human Services offices. Many county funded services to disabled, seniors and those on Medicare are called In Home Supportive Services.  Care ranges from assistance with housework, shopping, bathing, cooking, changing ostomy bags, GI feedings, changing dressings, medication reminders or administration, companion services and other ADL assistance.  Service duration can be a few hours a couple of days per week or 24/7 care depending on the needs of the patient.

Patients needing these services usually have had catastrophic illness, accident, surgery or other incapacitating event.  Services can be temporary for a certain duration or can be long-term care.  The concept is to allow individuals to remain in the comfort of their homes instead of a board and care or convalescent hospital. 

The staff is hired and screened by the County Health Department or by a private in home care organization, hospital or adult care agency.  The clients must hold a minimum CNA or LVN licensing and have certification in IV therapy, injectable medication, ostomy care, intubation, and other medical procedures.  They must pass a live scan and have no felony criminal record or professional complaint.

Recommendations are made through your physician to your insurance company or Medicare.  A private in home care organization sends a caseworker to your home and according to doctor's orders creates a care plan.  The office assigns a nurse to assist in your care until such time as the doctor decides you no longer need the service.