What Should You Ask a Potential Home Health Care Agency
1. Ask the Home Health Care Agency to show you their current license or registration.
2. Ask what services do they provide and what services will specifically be provided to you.
Not all home health care agencies offer the same range of services, so it’s important to get clear answers about what’s available and what will be tailored to your needs. For example, do they provide skilled nursing, physical therapy, personal care assistance, or medication management? Take the time to discuss your unique situation, and ask how the agency’s services will support your goals. Don’t hesitate to ask how these services will improve your condition, help with daily activities, or contribute to your recovery or independence. The more detailed the explanation, the better you can decide if this agency is the right fit for you.
What Can I Expect During a Home Health Care Visit?
During a typical home health care visit, you can expect your care provider to take your vital signs, such as blood pressure and temperature, and ask questions about how you’re feeling—especially regarding pain or changes in your condition. The nurse or therapist may assist with medications, coordinate your care plan, and provide skilled nursing or therapy services right in your home.
You’ll also have the opportunity to get answers about your care, learn about managing your condition, and discuss any concerns you have. Each visit is tailored to your health needs, so if you require wound care, physical therapy, or help with daily activities, those services will be included in your scheduled visits. The provider will work with you to ensure you’re as comfortable and informed as possible throughout your care.
- Ask how often you can expect staff visits.
The number of visits from home health care staff depends on your particular health needs and your insurance coverage (for example, Medicare, Blue Cross Blue Shield, or private long-term care policies often have specific guidelines). Be sure to ask if the agency will coordinate with your doctor to decide the most appropriate schedule for you. Staff should be able to explain what your weekly routine might look like, and adjust as your care needs change.
- Ask who will be on your care team.
It’s important to know which professionals may be involved in your care. Ask the agency for an overview of team members who might be assigned to you. Your care team could include:
- Registered Nurses (RN) and Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN)
- Physical, occupational, or speech therapists
- Certified home health aides
- Social workers
Ask about the background, training, and qualifications of these staff members, and whether you’ll have a regular team or if different professionals will rotate in and out of your care.
3. Ask for a written description of fees and ask how billing will be handled (weekly, biweekly).
4. Tell the Home Health Care Agency if you have insurance (Long Term Care, PPO, HMO, Auto and Disability). Ask if they will submit bills to your insurance company and accept an assignment of benefits (direct payment from your insurance company), or will require up front payment from you. If you are covered by Medicare, ask if the provider is eligible to bill Medicare.
Additionally, inquire about what types of insurance or benefits the agency accepts, such as Medicare, Veterans benefits, private health insurance, or if private pay is required. Ask how the agency helps determine your eligibility and level of coverage. Clarify the process for payment or submitting claims to insurance, and whether the agency assists with coordinating billing or paperwork. This can help avoid unexpected costs and ensure you know exactly how payment will be handled
5. Ask for proof of current insurance (liability, malpractice, workers compensation, bonding).
6. Ask how long the Home Health Care Agency has been in business, and check them online at www.Floridahealthstats.com (click “Facility Locator”).
7. Ask if the home health care provider is on call 24-hours a day, 7 days a week and verify the phone number. If you are receiving skilled services “RN,LPN,PT,ST,OT or are on life-support equipment, the home health care provider is required to be on call 24-hours a day 7 days a week. (Note if you are receiving non-skilled services “aide / companion / homemaker“ or have equipment that is not life supporting, the provider does not have to be reachable 24-hours a day, 7 days a week, but only during regular service/business hours).
8. Ask who you should contact in the company if you have a complaint or a problem with the service. AHCA toll free complaint line is (888) 419-3456.
9. If you have a physical or mental condition that requires medical oversight during evacuations, ask the home health care provider if they take care of registering patients who will need help with evacuation and sheltering during a disaster, like a hurricane with the Special Needs Registry.
How Do You Start Receiving Care?
Once you’ve chosen a home health care agency that meets your needs, starting services is usually a straightforward process. Here are the typical steps to get care underway:
- Provider Orders: Most agencies will need a referral or written orders from your primary care physician, especially if you require skilled nursing or therapy services.
- Admission Assessment: The agency will schedule an assessment (often at your home) to evaluate your care needs and create a personalized care plan.
- Paperwork and Consents: Be prepared to complete some initial paperwork, including consent forms and privacy disclosures.
- Coordination With Your Doctor: The agency may work directly with your healthcare providers to gather any required medical information or documentation.
If you’re unsure about any part of the process, ask your agency for a clear, step-by-step explanation. Reputable agencies are always willing to walk you through each stage and answer questions before care begins.
How Do I Begin Home Health Care Services?
Once you have selected a home health care agency that meets your needs and answered all of your questions, the next step is to start the admission process. Typically, the agency will need orders or documentation from your primary care physician before services can begin.
Most agencies will guide you through the steps, which may include:
- Gathering your medical history and current care requirements
- Verifying your insurance coverage and securing any necessary authorizations
- Arranging for your physician to provide the required paperwork or orders
- Reviewing and signing consent forms and agreements
If you need assistance obtaining the necessary physician’s orders or have questions about paperwork, ask the agency for support—they should be able to help. Once all information is received and processed, your care plan can be developed and services can begin, usually with an initial assessment in your home.
Be sure to clarify any details with the agency so you know exactly what to expect as you move forward.
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