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COVID19 DEFINITION OF HOMEBOUND STATUS EXPANDED

Posted 07-14-2020 by Paula Allerding,RN/CCM

The Covid-19 Pandemic impact on our country, the economy and local communities has been far reaching. It is not only impacting our lives and economies but requiring authorities to re-look at policies and procedures, leading to updates in keeping with the current times. The advent of Covid-19 and its effect on the frail and the elderly have led CHAPS (community health accreditation partner) and the Home Health Federal Blanket waiver dated May 4, 2020 to broaden the definition of “homebound” for homecare patients. As per the latest guidelines, a patient is defined as homebound according to these new circumstances:
-When a physician advises that a patient cannot leave his/her home due to suspected or confirmed COVID-19 diagnosis.
-If the patient has a condition that makes them more susceptible to COVID-19 if they leave their home.
- The patient required skilled services which a home health care agency can provide under the Medicare Home Health Care benefit.
 
The earlier criteria for being declared homebound remain in places which are:
·         Patients who find it difficult to leave their homes and cannot do so
·         The help of another person or medical equipment such as crutches, walkers or wheelchairs are required to leave home
·         The physician feels decline in overall health by leaving the home etc.
The physician will evaluate if a patient meets the criteria for being declared homebound resulting in them being qualified to avail Medicare home health benefits. The physician is obliged to re-evaluate and certify the plan of care after 60 days. If the physician feels otherwise, then the home health care services can be withdrawn.
These new guidelines are enabling home health care agencies to serve more homebound people than ever before. We at Pure Home Health care are dedicated to keeping our patients safe and health in the following ways:
All our staff has increased training in infection control and how to keep themselves and their patients safe.
The nurse can even help set up a telehealth conference between the patient and the physician.
The nurse will come to the home wearing proper protective equipment.
All medical equipment is being sanitized between each patient visit.
The Staff is updated daily with new and changing information regarding COVID-19 because we believe knowledge is power.
 
Contact us today for the care of a loved one or for yourself. Our team of trained professionals are standing by to provide the best care during these difficult times of staying home, remaining isolated and building your immunity & vitality through best practices.

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