Setting up home health care can seem like a daunting task, but it can also be beneficial for those who require it. Home health care can provide patients with a personalized, convenient, and cost-effective way to continue receiving medical care in the comfort of their home. If you are looking to set up home health care in Michigan, there are a few steps you can take to ensure a smooth and successful process.

Step 1: Schedule a Consult with Your Primary Doctor

The first step in setting up home health care is to schedule a consultation with your primary doctor. During this visit, you can discuss your decision to receive home health care and your doctor can help you determine what level of care is appropriate for your needs.
It’s important to have an open and honest discussion with your doctor about why you are considering home health care. Be sure to communicate your goals and concerns so that your doctor can recommend the best course of action for you.

Step 2: Determine the Type of Care You Need

Before setting up home health care, it’s important to determine the type of care you or your loved one needs. Some common types of home health care include:

Skilled Nursing: This type of care is provided by Registered Nurses (RNs) and can include continued medical treatment, wound care, medication management, and other medical services.

Physical therapy: A Physical Therapist can provide exercises and treatments to help patients recover from accidents or injuries or improve their mobility.

Occupational therapy: An Occupational Therapist can help patients regain their independence with daily activities, such as dressing or cooking.

Speech therapy: A Speech Therapist can assist you with communication and swallowing difficulties.

Private Duty Care: This type of care includes assistance with Activities of Daily Living (ADL), such as bathing, grooming, dressing, eating, transportation, etc. This type of care includes non-medical assistance.

Determining the type of care needed will help you research the right home health care provider for you or your loved one.

Step 3: Find a Home Health Care Provider

Once you have determined the type of care needed, you can begin looking for a home health care provider in Michigan. It’s important to choose a reputable and reliable provider licensed by the state.

You can also search for home health care providers in Michigan through the Michigan Home Health Association or the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services. You can also ask for recommendations from your doctor or Medical Social Workers (MSWs).

Step 4: Notify Your Physician of Your Preferred Home Health Care Provider

Once you have decided on the type of home health care you would like to receive, be sure to notify your physician of your preferred home health care provider. This will allow your physician to fax over a prescription to the provider.

Step 5: Confirm the Prescription was Processed

Finally, contact the home care intake department to confirm that the prescription was processed. This will ensure that your home health care services can begin as soon as possible.

Step 6: Verify Your Insurance Coverage

Before beginning home health care, it’s important to verify your insurance coverage. Many insurance plans cover home health care, but it’s important to check with your insurance provider to determine the specific coverage.

If you need financial assistance, you can also request the home health care agency to help you with researching Medicare or Medicaid option in your state.

Step 7: Prepare Your Home

Preparing your home for home health care setup is a crucial step in the process. Depending on the type of care needed, you may need certain modifications to your home, such as installing grab bars or ramps.

Also make sure your home is clean and free of fall hazards. This includes disposing clutter, ensuring well lit and clear walkways.

Step 8: Meet with Your Home Health Care Provider

Once you have chosen a home health care provider, you will have an initial meeting with them to discuss your needs and develop a care plan. This step allows you to ask any questions you may have and clarify them before a care plan is prepared by your care team in consultation with your physician.

During this meeting, you will also discuss the schedule and frequency of visits. Depending on the type of care you may need, visits can range from a few times a week to daily.

With home health care, you can enjoy the benefits of personalized care and support, all from the comfort of your own home. At Affinity Home Care Agency, we believe that home is where the heart is, and that’s why we are committed to helping patients undergoing medical care maintain their independence and dignity.
If you’re looking for a trusted home health care provider for yourself or an aging parent in Michigan, contact us today at 248-363-8650 or info@affinityhomecareagency.com.