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Home Care and Home Health Care

You’ve probably heard the terms “home care” and “home health care.” You may have even heard them used interchangeably. Though they sound alike, each provides very different services to someone who receives at-home care. Keep reading to learn more about each and understand the differences between home care and home health care.

The Biggest Difference

Possibly the biggest difference between home care and home health care is the level of skill and training involved for those who administer care as well as the complexity of the care itself.

Those who provide home care are often experienced caregivers but may also be friends or family members who help with non-medical aid or routine chores and responsibilities. Conversely, home health care professionals are clinically trained and licensed in varying degrees as nurses or therapists. They focus more on assisting patients with medical-related issues and care.

Home Care

As previously mentioned, home care is non-medical assistance provided to a patient — often an aging senior — in their home. A competent caregiver, family member, or friend often administers home care by helping the recipient with simple tasks or chores.

Home care often includes:

• Cleaning or other housework
• Help with personal care, such as bathing or getting dressed
• Companionship
• Medication reminders
• Cooking or meal preparation
• Transportation for appointments or errands

This service only asks that the caregiver be compassionate and patient, though no formal training or licensing is required.

The support patients receive through home care allows them to maintain their independence while aging in place. Home care also offers respite for family caregivers who may feel overwhelmed and need help while looking after a loved one.

Home Health Care

Prescribed for a patient’s treatment plan by a care provider, home health care is administered by a trained and licensed nurse, therapist, or medical professional. These services provide assistance for more medical-related issues and often include:

• Medical testing and health monitoring
• Pain management
• Medication education and administration
• Wound care
• Rehabilitative therapy

Home health care is especially beneficial for patients trying to regain their independence while recovering from an illness or injury. It can also offer comfort to someone facing medical challenges, as they receive support in their own home.

Cost of Care

Costs vary between home care and home health care, as does coverage.

Some home care providers are family or friends and care for a loved one in their spare time. Professional caregivers may charge an hourly rate, depending on the care needed and provided. These costs are usually paid out of pocket by the patient or family.

Home health care is prescribed by a doctor, so most insurance covers some or all of the costs. This, of course, is based on eligibility and plans. Consult with your insurance provider for specifics.

Learn More About Us

Home care and home health care both provide at-home assistance for patients but in very different ways. If you or a loved one needs specialized medical care at home, the home health care team at Triniti Home Health & Hospice is here to help. Contact us with any questions or to learn more about receiving our compassionate, at-home services.