If you or a loved one needs care but finds it impossible to get to doctors’ offices or treatment centers, our home health services provide the access to care you need. Thanks to advancements in medical technology, we’re able to include procedures that were previously only available through outpatient centers or hospitals.

But in order for Medicare or some private insurers to pay for these services, you must meet the requirements for homebound status for home health. 

We know the entire process of discovering these requirements can be overwhelming, and that’s why we want to address the issue in-depth in our article.

At 3HC, home health care means providing quality treatment in your community, in the place you call home. Whether you’re recovering from a hip replacement, a recent hospitalization or you require intense specialized care, our team of healthcare professionals provides the compassionate care you can expect from those who treat you like family. 

Next, let’s take a closer look at the definition of homebound status for home health, what you need to know and what Medicare requires.

What Does Homebound Status Mean?

How can homebound individuals qualify for home health care?

To meet homebound status for home health, you must meet the following criteria:

• You have trouble leaving home without assistance due to an injury or an illness. Assistance may include:
  • Cane
  • Walker
  • Wheelchair
  • Help from someone
  • Specialized transportation
• You can’t normally leave your home because it takes major effort  
• Your health care provider does not recommend leaving your home due to your condition  

In addition, you must also require:

• Skilled care to improve or slow down your current health condition
• The care of a healthcare professional who provides details and documentation following an in-person visit with you.
• Services of a Medicare-approved home health agency. (3HC is Medicare-approved)

As always, because Medicare and other plans can change from year to year, we strongly encourage you to speak with your representative to ensure you have the most up-to-date information.

What Specific Conditions or Limitations Qualify Someone as Homebound?

Several medical conditions may qualify you for home health care. We’ve listed a few of them below:

• Stroke
• ALS
• Advanced kidney or liver disease
• COPD
• Heart disease
• Alzheimer’s or other dementias

In addition, those who have had surgery, such as hip replacements or other procedures, may qualify if they are unable to leave the home (and meet the criteria outlined above.)

Can a Homebound Status Be Temporary?

Yes, it can. In fact, temporary homebound status is quite common for those who are recovering from surgery and are unable to leave home without great difficulty. If you’re not sure whether or not you qualify for temporary homebound status, we encourage you to contact us. We’ll be happy to answer all your questions. 

Interesting Facts About Home Health Care Services

Did you realize that home health care services involve more than doctors and nurses? There are several members of the health care team who will be working with you. These include:

• Medical social worker
• Physical, occupational and speech therapists

Also, home health care can dramatically reduce the risk of being readmitted to the hospital, especially for chronic conditions like heart disease and COPD.

Home health care is not just for seniors. It can be used by those of any age who are dealing with serious health issues. 

Explore 3HC’s Home Health Services to Get the Care You Need In Your Own Home

We believe there’s much more to providing home health care than mere medical intervention. We see it as a time to focus on getting to know you and your family.  This is the only way to develop a comprehensive scope of care that is truly tailored to fit their needs.

Let our family care for your family. We invite you to contact us to learn more.