Home hospital care is a healthcare model that gained significant traction during and after the COVID-19 pandemic, allowing patients to receive acute hospital-level care in their homes.
What Is Home Hospital Care?
Recognized by the federal government, home hospital care is designed for patients requiring acute hospital-level care but prefer receiving it in their homes. This model became particularly relevant during COVID-19 to reduce hospital overcrowding.
Home hospital care is different from regular home health care. It is for more severe health problems that usually need a hospital stay. It includes help after surgeries or taking care of sudden worsening of long-term sicknesses like diabetes, COPD, and heart disease.
Types of Home Hospital Care
Home hospital care primarily involves medical services, focusing on Medical care services. These include care by doctors, registered nurses, or physical therapists for conditions like diabetes and support in rehabilitation therapies.
While home hospital care is primarily medical, some patients may also receive non-medical care services, which include assistance with daily activities like bathing and housekeeping, often part of broader home care services.
Home Hospital Care Costs
The cost of home hospital care varies based on patient needs and location.
While these services can be more affordable when covered by private insurance, Medicare, or Medicaid, specific coverage and out-of-pocket costs depend heavily on individual plans and treatments.
Does My Insurance Cover It?
Insurance coverage for home hospital care depends on several criteria:
Medicare typically covers skilled home healthcare for a limited time under certain conditions, provided the care is intermittent and less than full-time.
Non-medical care, such as bath assistance or housekeeping, is generally not covered.
Medicaid coverage varies by state and individual plans.
Private long-term care insurance may cover some home healthcare costs.
To be eligible for insurance coverage, you generally need to meet conditions such as being homebound, having a doctor's order for home health services, and requiring specific continuous therapies from a certified agency.
Advantages and Benefits
Home hospital care offers several benefits:
- It's often more cost-effective than prolonged hospital stays.
- Patients can recover more comfortably at home.
- Continuous monitoring can reduce hospital readmissions and mortality.
Drawbacks and Challenges
However, there are challenges:
- The cost can be high, especially without adequate insurance coverage.
- Adjusting to in-home care can take time for some seniors.
- Finding the right home healthcare services requires research and planning.
Takeaway
Home hospital care brings medical services to the comfort of your home. It offers safety, faster recovery, and mental health benefits, making it a preferred option for many. However, it's essential to consult healthcare providers to determine if it suits your needs.