How to choose the right home health provider

Selecting the right home health provider is an important decision that can impact your experience and both medical and functional outcomes. Choosing the right home health care provider means finding one that will be there to deliver personalized care that helps you achieve your individual care goals.

Making the right choice ensures that you or your loved one receives the best possible care, tailored to your specific needs and preferences. To assist you in making an informed decision, we’ve outlined key factors to ensure you receive the high-quality home health care you deserve.

Choosing a home health care provider that aligns with your needs and preferences

It’s essential to choose a home health provider that aligns with your specific health needs and preferences. Home health services include skilled nursing, physical therapy, occupational therapy, medical social work, speech therapy and home health aides. Choose a provider that takes a holistic approach to care, meaning they treat the whole person. That’s where age-friendly care comes into play.

Choosing an in-home health care provider that has adopted an age-friendly approach to care means prioritizing what matters most to the patient is paramount. Age-friendly care focuses on the unique needs of older adults, ensuring that their physical, emotional and social needs are met. This approach to care is based on research that identifies the most important factors to consider as we age – the 4Ms: what matters, medication, mentation and mobility.

Researching and comparing home health providers

You can compare Medicare home health providers via the Care Compare tool on the Medicare website. This will show you general information about home health providers near you.

Seek recommendations from health care professionals, friends and family. Ask your primary care physician who they recommend and why. Meet with different providers and interview them. Ask the agencies you meet with if they have adopted age-friendly care. If discharging from a hospital stay, ask which home health agencies are willing to meet with you while still in the facility.

Online reviews and ratings can also provide valuable insights into the quality of care provided by different home health agencies. Look for providers who have a strong reputation and positive feedback from their patients.

Checking credentials and certifications

Verifying the credentials and certifications of a home health provider is crucial. Ensure that the provider is licensed and/or accredited by relevant authorities. Specialized training and experience in specific health conditions can also be a significant advantage, ensuring that the provider is well-equipped to handle unique care needs.

Evaluating quality of care

Quality of care and patient outcomes are paramount when choosing a home health care provider. Look for providers with high patient satisfaction scores and positive testimonials. A commitment to continuous improvement and adherence to best practices is a good indicator of a home health company’s dedication to delivering excellent care.

Assessing communication and support

Clear and open communication between the primary care physician, home health team, patient and caregivers are essential. Ensure that the home health agency offers support services such as 24/7 on-call assistance and regular updates on the patient’s condition. A provider who listens to and addresses concerns promptly can make a significant difference in the overall care experience and outcomes. For age-friendly care, effective communication is crucial in understanding and addressing the unique needs and preferences of older adults.

Making an informed decision on home health care providers

Choosing the right home health provider is an important decision in your health care journey. The right provider will enhance your quality of life, providing peace of mind and ensuring that what matters most is always prioritized.

To help you feel confident in choosing the right home health provider, print out this article, download the Medicare checklist with guidance for choosing a home health care agency, and then talk to your physician about skilled in-home care options.