Non-Skilled Care Agencies
SKILLED CARE DEFINITIONS (continued from page 49)
TRACH CARE – Refers to care administered to patients who have undergone a tracheotomy. A tracheotomy is a surgical procedure in which a cut or opening is made in the windpipe (trachea). The surgeon inserts a tube into the opening to bypass an obstruction, allow air to get to the lungs, or remove secretions. WOUND CARE – Refers to services for providing diagnosis and treatment for ulcers, pressure sores and other wounds. Treatments may include but is not limited to irrigations, dressing, and wound vacs. Some agencies may employ specialty nurses to provide and instruct in care specifically for patients with more complicated wounds.
NON-SKILLED CARE DEFINITIONS 24 HOUR CARE – Refers to “round the clock treatment” in a home environment. The care may be shared by multiple caregivers or by a single caregiver. 24 HOUR ON CALL – Refers to someone being available 24 hours a day to speak with you. ACCREDITED – Accrediting agencies are professional groups that establish and monitor voluntary, industry wide standards to ensure that patients receive quality home health care services. The Commission on Accreditation for Home Care, Inc. (CACH) and Community Health Accreditation Program (CHAP) are two of the accrediting agencies. ALZHEIMER’S DEMENTIA CARE – This refers to personnel of the agency that are specifically trained to provide care to those that are afflicted with Alzheimer’s or other dementia related problems. BONDED – Means that a bonding company has secured money that is available to the consumer in the event they file a claim against the company. FREE ASSESSMENT – Agencies that do not charge for the initial assessment of the client which is usually facilitated by a nurse or other professional capable of providing a detailed care plan. 52 • Please mention the Seniors Blue Book when you call our advertisers.
