Home Care After Hospital Discharge: 4 Steps You Need to Take
If you or a loved one are being discharged from the hospital and arranging home care, the process can be overwhelming for patients and caregivers alike. Thankfully, there are a few things you can do after a discharge to ensure that everything goes smoothly.
Arkansas’ premier home health care provider Care IV Home Health is experienced with this transition process. They recommend following these steps to arrange for exceptional continuity of care:
1. Arrange for Assistance
While some people can look after themselves or their loved ones after they leave the hospital, many patients with serious health conditions will need outside help to ensure their safety and provide medical attention. In these cases, it is necessary to hire a quality home care provider.
From therapy services to live-in nursing, a variety of senior care services are available to families and are most often covered by insurance or Medicare. Search online for qualified and experienced home health providers in your area, ask friends for references, or talk to your hospital’s discharge planner for recommendations.
2. Decide on Services
If you need services after discharge, your hospital will assist with referrals. The discharge planning department will make recommendations for care, but you may need additional help to stay healthy. Whether you require daytime nursing, occupational therapy assistance, or a live-in nurse, you can discuss and implement a customized service plan with your in-home health care provider.
3. Understand Payment
Medicare or insurance coverage may vary by a patient’s plan. Work with your home care provider to understand payment options as they pertain to your customized services. The best in-home health care agencies will guide you through insurance and billing basics to ensure you can provide yourself or your loved one with the most comprehensive care possible.
4. Evaluate Your Provider
In the days, weeks, and months after the transition to home care is complete, evaluate your provider for quality of care. If you are a child or caregiver of the patient, arrive unannounced to check in on nurses or therapists and regularly evaluate the physical appearance and health of your loved one to make certain they’re safe.
To learn more about the home care options available to you after hospital discharge, call Care IV Home Health at 1-800-731-CARE (2273) . For additional information about company’s senior care services, including therapy and meal preparation, visit our website.
