Home Health Care Definitions

NON-MEDICAL HOME CARE

What’s the Difference Between Home Often, when I meet with a family Health and Private they ask me this question, “what’s the difference between Home Duty Care? Health and Private Duty care?” The difference primarily revolves around the payor source. Private Duty care is typically paid by the individual out of pocket, whereas home health is funded via Medicare or Medicaid.

However, in order to qualify for Home Health services, your loved one must have a “qualifying event” and a physician’s prescription to begin care. Home health is not typically a permanent service, and the goal is to improve a patient’s function in the short term.

Alternatively, Private Duty services can be tailored to meet your loved one’s needs and does not require physician authorization. These services can last as long as an individual or family might deem them necessary and serves as an alternative to assisted living or group care settings. Private Duty care is flexible and can be scheduled from 1 to 24 hours, 7 days a week. The primary goal of Private Duty providers is to ensure that individuals can age in place, safely at home. Private Duty care is a resource not only for the individual being served, but also for family members who are assisting with care as our caregivers can assist with, housekeeping, errands, meals, laundry, transportation and personal care.

Have I sold you on Private Duty care yet? If so, here are a few recommendations on selecting the right company for yourself or your loved one. n Ask the question, “What makes your company different?” n Ensure that they have a robust pool of caregivers. n Ask them to provide proof of insurance and state licensure. n Longevity is important. Check to see how long they have been in business. n Training is vital. Ask to see their curriculum for caregiver training.~

Editor’s Note: This article was submitted by Holly Pokorny, Administrator for Danville Support Services. She may be reached at 801-363-1521 or by email at h.pokorny@danvillesupportservices. com. See ad on page 119.