Home health care is often less expensive, more convenient, and can be as effective as the care you receive in a hospital or skilled nursing facility. In most cases, if it's part-time or intermittent, you may be able to receive skilled nursing care and home health support services for up to 8 hours a day (combined), for up to 28 hours a week. You may be able to receive more frequent care for a short time (less than 8 hours a day and no more than 35 hours a week) if your provider thinks it's necessary. If your provider decides that you need home health care, they should provide you with a list of agencies that provide services in your area. However, Medicare may temporarily cover custody care if it's part of a general care plan that includes specialized home health care.
In addition, there are some differences between Medicare Part A and Part B coverage for home health care. Home health care is a wide range of health care services that you can receive at home in the event of an illness or injury. Ask the home health agency what services Medicare will pay for and which aren't covered, since some agencies may recommend services that Medicare doesn't cover. Planning ahead is essential, since Medicare home health benefits don't cover 24-hour care or long-term personal care needs. Medicare provides essential support to people who need home health care due to an illness, injury, or chronic condition.
Medicare does cover home health care, but the duration depends on meeting specific criteria and ongoing evaluations. Medicare Part B covers home health care needed outside the hospital setting, such as skilled nursing care or therapy. The costs and benefits may be different for beneficiaries enrolled in Medicare Advantage plans, so check with your plan to find out how they provide home health benefits covered by Medicare. If you have a Medicare Supplemental Insurance (Medigap) policy or other health insurance coverage, let your doctor or other provider know so that your bills are paid correctly. Understanding potential gaps in Medicare coverage can help families better prepare for future care needs.
If there are any home services that Medicare doesn't cover, your home health agency must let you know in writing with an advance notice of lack of coverage for the beneficiary (ABN). To qualify, your loved one must first meet the eligibility criteria for home health care covered by Medicare.
