Are you considering hiring a home health care aide for your senior loved one?
Are you familiar with their duties and credentials?
Learn more about home health aide services and the qualifications required for home care nursing.
Listed below are helpful resources and things to consider before hiring home health care.
Care services range from basic companionship to specialized medical and nursing services. For example, a patient who has recently been discharged from the hospital after an illness or surgery may require home visits from an RN (registered nurse), LPN (licensed practical nurse), or CNA (certified nurse aide). In some instances, a patient may need more specialized care such as physical therapy, speech therapy, pain and medication management, mental health counseling, or social services. Home health aides may help with other personal or medical needs, such as arranging to install safety and mobility equipment or checking medical devices to confirm they are working properly, or even helping to find a nutritious meal delivery service.
Three Types of Home Health Care
- Non-medical companionship and assistance
- Trained licensed nurses – (RN), LPN, or CNA
- Specialized medical professionals
Whatever level of care is needed, the goal is to ensure that the client can stay in their own home and live as independently as possible. Non-medical home health aides help patients with activities of daily living (ADLs), such as eating, dressing, and bathing. Usually, the home health aide works at the client’s residence, but may also assist with trips outside the home.
Non-Medical Home Health Aide Training and Certification
The role of a home health care aide is essential, although it does not require a medical degree or license. To work for a nurse registry, The Florida Agency of Healthcare Administration requires home health aides to complete an approved 40-hour HHA course. Once training is completed, the candidate registers with the state and takes the competency evaluation exam to obtain their certificate. To work for a Medicare nurse registry, there is a 75-hour training program, exam, and certificate.
Private Skilled Nursing Care at Home
Trained medical professionals provide personalized care to patients in the comfort of their own homes.
Skilled medical care can range from short to long-term assistance. Long-term medical care might entail physical therapy or blood pressure monitoring. Short-term skilled nursing care is often intended to minimize the length of hospital stays following a major illness or surgery and may include wound care, or medication management. Most medical issues can be taken care of in-home.
Payment Options
Home health care services are often covered by Medicaid, private insurance plans, or long-term care insurance. Clients may choose to pay out-of-pocket for services that aren’t covered by their insurance. It is important to make sure that your provider accepts your coverage before hiring them. A home health nurse registry may also accept payment from community organizations or government agencies. There are also government programs available such as VA benefits. Regardless of your funding source, Mazaltov Home Care can help you identify the best payment option for your care and may be able to recommend helpful resources.
How a Nurse Registry Can Help
A nurse registry such as Mazaltov Home Care is an excellent way to find a qualified in-home caregiver.
Home health aides, registered nurses, and other medical specialists are available to assist you with the care that is needed. Nurse registry services may include short or long-term assistance and respite care. A good nurse registry will take the time to fully understand your individual needs and match you with the best possible care providers. You can meet and interview prospective providers, and it is always the client’s choice who they feel comfortable hiring.
The nurse registry staff has vast knowledge and expertise that may include resources with government and community agencies. Further, they may offer assistance and recommendations to help make the home safer and more convenient. A nurse registry can provide continuity of care, coordinating with your physician and other caregivers and family. They can also help with a transition between healthcare settings. The nurse registry team will monitor your condition closely and help determine how much support is needed from a caregiver. Using a nurse registry can help you avoid the hassle of having to go through the process alone.
Once a care plan is agreed upon, the nurse registry will match you with a caregiver that will perfectly meet your family’s needs. You can be assured that the nurse registry has carefully checked caregiver credentials, conducted background checks, and evaluated their qualifications before introducing them to you or your loved one. These thorough assessments, make it much easier to find a competent, dependable, and skilled care provider. Further, they function as a go-between in case you have any complaints or concerns.
After a successful placement, you can begin to enjoy the benefits of having your care provider come to your home.
Our family-trusted in-home services include light housework, personal hygiene, medication reminders, meals, transportation, and companionship. And, all our services can be individually tailored in an affordable package when and where you need them. To learn more about Mazaltov, or to schedule a FREE, in-home assessment for your senior, please visit mazaltovcare.com now!
