Who pays for homecare?

Generally, an individual is eligible for Medicare to pay for home health and hospice services without having to pay premiums if the individual is at least 65 years of age and a citizen or permanent resident of the United States.

Home Health Services

Qualifying for home health services covered by Medicare entails:

•The individual is home bound meaning that the individual rarely leaves the home except for church services, doctor appointments, an occasional family function or hair appointment.

•A skilled-need such as teaching, assessing, and treatment by a skilled medical professional (i.e., nurse or therapist).

Hospice Services

Hospice services covered by Medicare are available for individuals diagnosed with a life-limiting illness and who have received a physician’s order for such services.

What if I’m under the age of 65?

An individual under the age of 65 may still qualify for Medicare benefits if they have received Social Security or Railroad Retirement Board disability benefits for 24 months or are in End-Stage Renal Disease and meet certain requirements.

Although most eligible individuals are enrolled in Medicare, some insurance companies are primary payers over Medicare. If this is the case, some benefits and eligibility requirements might vary; however, most insurance companies generally offer home care benefits with or without a patient co-pay. In addition, private pay is also an option.

If you are unsure about your needs, eligibility, and benefits for home health, an in-home assessment is always complimentary.