but understanding the details can serve to keep medical expenses in line. Unfortunately, many beneficiaries miss out on these benefits because they are confused or do not understand what is included. In this article, we will cover the various at-home caregiving benefits under Medicare that most seniors ignore and how you can take advantage of them in full.
What Medicare pays for home healthcare?
For home care, Medicare pays for medically necessary care. These may involve physical therapy, skilled nursing, occupational therapy, and speech therapy. These are usually delivered through Medicare-enrolled home health agencies, which collaborate with physicians and other healthcare professionals to deliver quality care at your doorstep.
Skilled Nursing Care: Registered nurse or licensed practical nurse visits that are necessary to deliver medical care such as injections, changing dressings or taking medications are covered under Medicare Part A.
Physical, Occupational, and Speech Therapy: If the doctor prescribes, Medicare will cover therapy services to help you recover from injury or manage an ongoing condition in the comfort of your own home. This would include therapy to assist with mobility, speech, and daily living activities.
Home Health Aide Services: Home health aide services are also covered by Medicare, but in small amounts. Personal care activities such as dressing, bathing, and grooming are provided by the aides. Medical care such as the administration of medications is, however, not permitted to be administered by the aides.
Major benefits most older adults miss
While most seniors are familiar with the fundamentals of Medicare benefits, they miss out on beneficial aspects of home caregiving. The following is an overview of benefits you must be aware of:
Limited home health aide coverage: Medicare does pay for home health aides, but the protection can be confusing. Home health aides are allowed to provide basic personal care, but for non-medical purposes only. Seniors often neglect this benefit and spend money out-of-pocket for care that can be paid by Medicare.
Part-time care coverage: Most beneficiaries don't know that Medicare does cover part-time or intermittent care. For instance, if you require a few hours of care each week, Medicare will cover it as long as it is medically necessary and your doctor has prescribed it.
Palliative care and hospice: If you or someone you love are suffering from a terminal or serious illness, Medicare will cover palliative care and hospice care in the home. These options focus on comfort and quality of life, delivering relief that's much needed for patients and families.
How to Maximize Medicare's Home Care Benefits
In order to ensure that you receive all the benefits Medicare must offer home care, the following is what you should do:
Get a physician's order: In order for home healthcare services to be covered under Medicare, you will require a physician's order. Make sure to inform your physician that you require home healthcare services and receive the necessary paperwork.
Select Medicare-approved agencies: Medicare-certified home health agencies are the only agencies that can deliver Medicare-covered care. Make sure to check that the agency you choose is certified.
Stay current with eligibility: Your Medicare home care is determined by your medical needs, and you will be required to comply with some eligibility requirements. Stay current with your medical condition and visit your physician periodically to ensure that you are staying current with those requirements.
Follow up on continued care: Medicare home health care coverage is not ongoing. It is usually provided for a specific duration unless you qualify for continued care. Regular follow-up visits with your physician on a regular basis are required to ensure that your care requirements are addressed on a regular basis.
