| Aspect | Home Health | Home Care |
|---|---|---|
| Services Provided | Offers skilled medical services provided by licensed healthcare professionals, including nursing care, physical therapy, and medical monitoring. | Provides non-medical assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs) and companionship, focusing on enhancing overall well-being. |
| Medical Focus | Emphasizes medical care and rehabilitation, often prescribed by a healthcare professional to address specific health conditions or recovery needs. | Primarily focuses on non-medical support, addressing daily living tasks and promoting a comfortable and supportive environment. |
| Personnel Qualifications | Staff includes licensed healthcare professionals, such as registered nurses (RNs), physical therapists, and other specialized medical professionals. | Caregivers may not require medical training, consisting of personal care aides, homemakers, and companions. |
| Examples of Services | Examples include wound care, administering medications, physical therapy, and monitoring vital signs based on a prescribed medical treatment plan. | Examples include assistance with bathing, dressing, meal preparation, companionship, and light housekeeping to support daily living. |
| Prescription Medications | Involves the administration of prescribed medications as part of medical treatment, with a focus on managing specific health conditions. | Typically does not involve the administration of prescription medications but may include medication reminders. |
| Insurance Coverage | Generally covered by health insurance, Medicare, or Medicaid when prescribed medical services are provided. | Often not covered by health insurance but may be covered by long-term care insurance or paid for out of pocket. |
| Duration of Care | Often provided on a short-term basis, focusing on rehabilitation and recovery, but can extend to long-term care based on medical necessity. | Can be short-term or long-term, depending on the individual's needs and preferences for ongoing non-medical support. |
| Care Plans | Care plans are developed based on medical assessments and prescribed treatments, aiming to address specific health conditions or recovery goals. | Care plans are tailored to the individual's non-medical needs, focusing on daily living tasks and overall well-being. |
| Goal of Care | Aims to provide skilled medical care, promote recovery, manage chronic conditions, and support individuals in their home environment. | Aims to enhance the individual's overall well-being, independence, and quality of life through non-medical support and companionship. |
| Examples of Providers | Home health agencies with licensed healthcare professionals, including nurses and therapists. | Home care agencies, private caregivers, and companionship services. |
In summary, home health and home care serve distinct purposes. Home health focuses on skilled medical services and rehabilitation prescribed by healthcare professionals, while home care provides non-medical assistance to support daily living and enhance overall well-being. The choice between the two depends on the individual's health needs, whether they require medical care, and the goals of care.