What is home health care?

“Home health care” refers to medical services provided at the patient’s residence. The home health services typically include skilled nursing, physical therapy, occupational therapy, medical social work and in-home aide. Home health may also include medical equipment and supplies.

Who can receive home health care?

Individuals of all ages and with a variety of health care needs can receive home health services. As the name implies, home health is for people who require assistance from a health care professional at home. Medicare and insurance companies require medical orders from a physician before care can be initiated. If you feel that you or a loved one may benefit from home health, we are only a phone call away. A member of our experienced staff can work with you and your physician to determine if home health is right for you.

Who pays for home health care?

Medicare and many private insurance plans have a home health benefit. A brief summary is listed under Paying for Home Health. Additionally, our expert financial staff can help you understand your coverage provisions and will contact your insurance company to determine your specific benefits.

How are the patient’s home health care needs determined?

All patients’ home health care needs are evaluated during the first visit by a RN or therapist. Under the direction of the patient’s physician and with input from the patient and family members, an individualized care plan is initiated. The care plan is continually assessed and updated as the patient’s needs change and as progress is made. All of this is documented in the patient’s chart.

Does Royal Crown educate family members on the type of care that is being provided?

Teaching is a very large part of our services. All patients are given teaching guides that deal with the diagnosis that they are receiving home health services for. Each visit the patient is taught in a teach-back method how to care for themselves. The care plan is made in conjunction with the patient and family and is discussed thoroughly. Our staff ensures the family and patient understand the care that will be provided, how often, etc. Much teaching is done on medications, safety, disease management, emergency procedures, community resources, nutrition, etc.

Does Royal Crown assign supervisors to oversee the quality of care patients are receiving in their homes?

Yes, every employee has a clinical supervisor that oversees the care patients are receiving. All staff are evaluated at least annually by their supervisor during a home visit. The home health aides are supervised every two weeks by a RN or therapist. Our clinical supervisors are always available to our staff and patients for questions or help.

What are the different screening processes the staff must complete?

• thorough interview process

What procedures are in place to handle emergencies?

An emergency plan is made and thoroughly discussed with the patient and family during the first visit and is included in the care plan. This is reviewed frequently with the patient and family during the course of our care in the home. An RN is on call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to handle questions, problems, etc.