Could skilled care at home help?
You do not have to determine eligibility yourself. These three questions can tell you whether it is worth a call.
Is there a skilled need?
Home health may include intermittent nursing, physical therapy, occupational therapy, medical social work, or aide services within a skilled plan. Personal or companion care by itself is different.
Is leaving home difficult?
Homebound does not mean the patient can never leave. It generally means leaving needs help or equipment, takes a major effort, or is not advised because of the condition.
Is there an order and required documentation?
A physician or other qualified practitioner must order covered home health and document the need, including the required related face-to-face encounter.
“I’m not sure” is enough reason to call.
Tell us the home address and what is making recovery difficult. We will explain what is usually required, check whether we serve the area, and tell you which paperwork may still be needed.
We cannot promise admission or coverage until we review the order, eligibility, staffing, and plan rules—but you do not need to wait for every answer before starting the conversation.
Ask OHH to call meEligibility questions families ask most
What does homebound mean?
It generally means leaving home is difficult, requires another person's help or special equipment, takes a major effort, or is not advised because of your condition. It does not mean you can never leave home.
Do I need skilled care?
Medicare home health requires a need for intermittent skilled services such as nursing or therapy. Personal care by itself does not meet that requirement.
Do I need a physician order?
Yes for covered skilled home health. A physician or other qualified practitioner must order the care and support the required documentation.
What is the face-to-face requirement?
A qualified practitioner must complete and document a face-to-face encounter related to the need for home health within the allowed Medicare time window.
Does someone have to be in the hospital first?
No. A hospital or rehab stay is not required. Home health can start from a doctor's office referral as long as the eligibility requirements are met.
What counts as "home"?
Your house, an apartment, a relative's home, or an assisted living residence can all count as home. A hospital or skilled nursing facility cannot.
Can I get home health while living in assisted living?
Potentially, yes. Home health can be provided where you live, including an assisted living residence, if you meet the eligibility requirements and the services do not duplicate what the facility already provides.
How long does home health care last?
Care is ordered in periods, commonly 30 to 60 days. It can continue as long as you remain eligible and your doctor recertifies that you still need it.
What happens on the first visit?
A nurse or therapist reviews the order, health history, medications, goals, home setup, and immediate concerns. The clinician explains the visit schedule and works with you and your provider on the plan of care.
Can I call before all paperwork is ready?
Yes. We can explain what is usually needed and help you understand the next step, but care cannot begin without the required order and documentation.
You do not have to determine eligibility by yourself.
Start with the address and the reason care is needed. We'll call you back the next business day and explain the next step.
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