Choosing a home health service provider can be an overwhelming process. The service should be based on the level of care needed after an injury, illness or hospitalization and how well a provider will be able to meet your needs.
The goal of home health is to help individuals regain their highest level of independence following an injury, illness or hospitalization.
The following are some standard aspects of home health providers that you should look for:
- Accreditation. Although all home health providers are required to be licensed by the Pennsylvania Department of Health, organizations can also become accredited to be held accountable to higher standards of care. Masonic Village Home Health is accredited by Community Health Accreditation Partner (CHAP), a leading review board that ensures top-quality service.
- Certified staff. All staff who work in the home health field must hold certifications and licenses as either a home health aide, certified nursing assistant, licensed practical nurse or registered nurse.
- Comprehensive therapies. Besides caring for immediate medical needs such as changing bandages, dressings and other post-hospitalization recovery services, comprehensive home health care should include access to properly licensed therapies. “We offer personalized services including skilled nursing, physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, medical social work and home health aides,” Elizabeth said.
- Detailed care plan. Having a detailed care plan is crucial in helping an individual reach their highest level of independence. Masonic Village Home Health staff complete a care plan based upon an initial assessment during admission, with patient input, and keeps everyone involved in future care discussions.
- Continued communication. After creating a care plan with a primary care physician (PCP) to meet individual needs and goals, the home health agency should remain in communication with the patient’s PCP to ensure appropriate treatment.
- Insurance and Medicare support. Most home health services can either be covered by Medicare or private insurance. Masonic Village Home Health is a benefit covered by Medicare.
- 24/7, 365 assistance. Because of the nature of home health care, it’s important that the provider has certified nursing staff on call at all times to handle medical emergencies.
- A record of good care. Organizations with a good reputation based on patients’ and families’ accounts, as well as government reports, may be preferred by some patients. Masonic Village Home Health has been serving Lancaster, Lebanon, Dauphin and York counties since 2017, and our yearly survey reveals our commitment to our patients.
- Diversity of care. Depending on your needs, you may want to select a provider that offers other continued care services such as rehabilitation, pharmacy services, personal and nursing care, home care and hospice. Having an organization that provides for multiple needs throughout a patient’s care can result in a greater piece of mind. Masonic Village offers an array of services to meet each individual’s needs.
- Accountability. It’s important for an organization to have staff who can serve as advocates for their patients – listening to and resolving issues with care, as needed.
If you still have questions about what is covered by home health services or how to decide if they’re right for you, contact Masonic Village Home Health today.
