Does Medicare Fully Cover Your Home Health Needs?

Medicare, a federal health insurance program primarily for individuals aged 65 and older, can be complex, especially regarding coverage for home health care. Medicare does cover some home health services. However, it is essential to understand the specifics. Let our home health agency in California guide you through this intricate aspect of care.

Medicare Part A covers skilled nursing care services provided part-time or intermittently. This includes services such as wound care, injections, and monitoring of health conditions. It also covers home health aide services for personal care needs, such as assistance with bathing, dressing, and medication management, if prescribed by a doctor as part of a senior care plan.

Medicare Part B covers outpatient services, including therapy services like physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech-language pathology services. These services are covered when prescribed by a doctor and deemed medically necessary. Part B also covers durable medical equipment (DME) needed for home health care, enhancing accessibility and comfort for seniors.

While Medicare provides robust coverage for many home health services, it has limitations. Medicare does not cover custodial care, which involves assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs) like meal preparation, cleaning, and shopping. Custodial care is not considered medically necessary under Medicare guidelines.

Similarly, Medicare does not cover long-term home care services that are primarily custodial and not deemed medically necessary. This distinction is essential for seniors requiring ongoing assistance with daily activities but not meeting the criteria for skilled nursing care.

Explore comprehensive Medicare-covered home health services in Long Beach, California, with Sunshine Home Health Services, Inc. Contact us today for personalized care!