“There are only four kinds of people in the world. Those who have been caregivers. Those who are currently caregivers. Those who will be caregivers, and those who will need a caregiver.” ― Quote by Former first lady of the USA, Rosalyn Carter.
Simply put, it is exactly what it sounds like – professional medical care provided to a patient in their homes. It includes a broad range of medical care as well as skilled non-medical care such as medical social workers. It is unique as it takes place in a residential setting rather than a clinical setup. The care provided at home is economical, more convenient, and just as effective. It is for these reasons that thousands of persons across the USA such as Josh Bousom of Philadelphia or Mani Smith of Michigan are turning to home health care services for the care of their elderly loved ones.
The list of services covered in-home health care is quite extensive and includes skilled nursing, psychiatric nursing, wound care, physical and occupational therapy, services of home health aides, medical social workers, speech-language pathologists, and so on. It also includes assisting older adults with activities of daily living, such as bathing, dressing, medication management, and eating. This is the broad range of medical and non-medical care is provided by licensed, compassionate, and experienced teams of nurses, therapists, and home health aides. Specialized care for conditions such as Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), Congestive Heart Failure (CHF) and Urinary care is available.
Families or elders who feel the need for a home health care service in the state of Michigan can get in touch with a home health care service agency or their physician. They can also contact the local county Health Department office. Each case is assessed and certified by a professional to determine the level of care before the applicant can be deemed qualified to receive such services.
If deemed qualified for such care at home, the next question which boggles minds is “How do I find the best-licensed Home care provider?”. Here are some ways a family/applicant could locate or shortlist such agencies:
Internet – Log onto the internet and search for such providers located in the Specific County or nearby. This is a primary source of information and will give pointed results. Keep a lookout for award logos and seals of approval as they are an indication that the provider is doing things the right way.
Referrals – If anyone in their social network (neighbors, relatives, or friends) has received such care before then it is advisable to ask them for advice and references. Their experiences are invaluable and aid in finding the right agency.
Ask a physician or hospital – Patients can also turn to their physician/hospital for references of the best-licensed Home care provider in the neighborhood. Local community resources such as an agency of aging etc provide leads as well.
A patient with any medical condition requires tender loving care by the best agency available. Choosing the best agency is a momentous decision. Diligence and attention to detail ensure that family/patient get the best agency which will provide the level of care they deserve.