Frequently Asked Questions

Home health care is medical care provided in your home by licensed professionals such as nurses, physical therapists, occupational therapists, speech therapists, home health aides, and medical social workers. These services are prescribed by a physician and are designed for patients recovering from illness or surgery, managing chronic conditions, or needing ongoing medical support.

Home health care is medical care provided by licensed professionals (nurses, therapists) and is typically covered by Medicare. Home care (also called personal care or companion care) is non-medical assistance with daily activities like cooking, cleaning, and companionship. Home care is usually not covered by Medicare and is paid privately or through Medicaid.

Yes. Medicare covers home health care at 100% — with no copay or deductible — when you meet eligibility requirements. You must be homebound, under a doctor's care, need skilled nursing or therapy services, and receive care from a Medicare-certified agency.

Being homebound means that leaving your home requires considerable and taxing effort due to your medical condition. You may need assistance from another person, a wheelchair, walker, or other medical equipment to leave. Being homebound does NOT mean you can never leave — you can still go to medical appointments, religious services, and make short, infrequent trips.

To qualify for Medicare home health care, you must: (1) be under the care of a physician, (2) need skilled nursing, physical therapy, speech therapy, or continuing occupational therapy, (3) be homebound, and (4) receive care from a Medicare-certified agency. Your doctor must order the services and create a care plan.

Talk to your doctor about your care needs. Your doctor can write an order for home health services and refer you to a Medicare-certified agency. You can also contact our care advisors for free guidance on getting started — we can help you understand your options and navigate the process.

If you qualify for Medicare home health benefits, there is no cost to you — Medicare covers services at 100% with no copay or deductible. Without Medicare coverage, costs vary: skilled nursing visits average $50-$130, physical therapy sessions $150-$200, and home health aide services $25-$35 per hour. Many private insurance plans also cover home health care.

Home health care can include skilled nursing (wound care, medication management, IV therapy), physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech-language pathology, home health aide services (personal care), and medical social work (counseling, resource coordination). The specific services you receive depend on your care plan.

Visit frequency depends on your care plan and medical needs. Typically, patients receive 1-3 visits per week for each service. For example, you might have a nurse visit twice a week and a physical therapist three times a week. Your care team adjusts the schedule as your condition improves.

Yes. You have the right to choose any Medicare-certified home health agency that serves your area. Your doctor or hospital may suggest an agency, but the final choice is yours. We recommend comparing quality ratings, services offered, and patient reviews before making a decision.

There is no set time limit for Medicare home health care. Services continue as long as they are medically necessary, your doctor certifies the need, and you continue to meet eligibility requirements. Your care plan is reviewed regularly and adjusted as your condition changes.

Yes. Home health care must be ordered by a physician. Your doctor will evaluate your needs, determine if you qualify, and create a plan of care. If you think you need home health services, the first step is talking to your doctor.

No. HomeCare PlanFinders is a free guidance service that helps families understand home health care options, navigate Medicare coverage, and connect with quality care. We do not provide medical care directly. Our care advisors can answer your questions and help you get started with the right services.

No. Our service is completely free. There are no fees, no obligations, and no hidden costs. We are here to help you understand your options and get the care you need.