Home Care Frequently Asked Questions

If you need skilled medical care in your home for the treatment of an illness or injury, you may be eligible for   services. To qualify for Medicare, and most other insurance coverage, you must meet the following conditions--

Your doctor must determine that you need medical care in your home, and agree to work with the   personnel in developing a plan for your care at home.

The care you require must be intermittent (not full-time or 24 hour).

The care you require must include skilled nursing care, physical therapy, or speech language pathology.

You must be homebound - this means that absences from the home are infrequent, of short duration, or to get medical care.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s):

Q: What types of skills can   staff do in my home?

A: The nurses may provide skills such as wound care, or care of tubes or drains, as well as teach you about your disease or medications. The speech, physical, and occupational therapists may work on special needs to help you regain your independence in caring for yourself.

Q: I need someone to stay with me at night. Will the nurse do that?

A: Medicare, and most insurances, will not pay for continuous home care. The goal of   care is to teach you, or your family, how to care for you and how to help you become more independent. The Registered Nurse will work with you to find community resources that may help you.

Q: I live with my son most of the time, but sometimes I go to my daughter’s house when my son goes on vacation. Will the staff come to my daughter’s house?

A: Most agencies have specific locations they cover. If your daughter’s home is outside the agency’s service area, but you still need care, the agency staff will make arrangements to transfer your care to another provider.

Q: I think I could use care but I don’t have a doctor’s appointment for a month. Do I have to wait until then?

A: No. Anyone may make a referral to the agency for care. The Registered Nurse will then contact your primary physician to coordinate your care.

Q: How much will I have to pay for care?

A: The agency will bill Medicare or your insurance for you. You will be responsible for coinsurances, deductibles, or care you may choose that is not part of your insurance plan.

If you have other questions, or think you may qualify for care, talk to your doctor, or call our office and discuss your questions or circumstances with one of our Registered Nurses.

Guthrie Care

RR 1 Box 154

Towanda, PA 18848

1-800-327-8039

A member of the Guthrie Healthcare System