FAQ — Respectful Home Health Care

Question 1

How do I know if my loved one qualifies for home health care?

Accepted Answer

Most patients qualify if they are homebound (meaning leaving home requires considerable effort) and have a skilled care need — such as wound care, physical therapy, or medication management — ordered by a physician. We offer a free care consultation to help determine eligibility and the right level of care.

Question 2

How quickly can care begin?

Accepted Answer

In most cases, we can begin care within 24 to 48 hours of receiving a physician's order and completing the intake process. For urgent situations, we do our best to expedite the process. Call us and we'll walk you through the steps.

Question 3

Do I need a doctor's referral to get started?

Accepted Answer

For Medicare-covered skilled services (nursing, therapy), a physician's order is required. For non-medical home health aide services, a referral is not always necessary. Contact us and we'll help you understand what's needed for your specific situation.

Question 4

What happens during the initial assessment?

Accepted Answer

A registered nurse or therapist will visit your home to conduct a comprehensive assessment of your loved one's medical needs, home environment, and personal goals. This assessment forms the basis of an individualized care plan, which is then reviewed and approved by the attending physician.

Question 5

Does Medicare cover home health care?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Medicare Part A and Part B cover medically necessary home health services — including skilled nursing, physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and medical social services — when ordered by a physician and provided by a Medicare-certified agency like ours. There is typically no cost to the patient for covered services.

Question 6

Does Medi-Cal (Medicaid) cover home health care?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Medi-Cal covers home health services for eligible California residents. Coverage details depend on your specific plan and medical needs. Our team can help verify your benefits and explain what is covered at no cost to you.

Question 7

What if I have private insurance?

Accepted Answer

Many private insurance plans, including HMOs and PPOs, cover home health services. Coverage varies by plan. We work with most major insurance carriers and will verify your benefits before care begins so there are no surprises.

Question 8

What if I don't have insurance or my insurance doesn't cover the services I need?

Accepted Answer

We offer private-pay options for patients who are not covered by insurance or who need services beyond what their plan covers. Our care coordinators can discuss rates and help you find the most cost-effective care solution for your situation.

Question 9

Who creates my loved one's care plan?

Accepted Answer

Care plans are developed collaboratively by our clinical team — including the registered nurse or therapist who conducts the initial assessment — in coordination with the patient's physician. We also involve the patient and family in the process to ensure the plan reflects personal goals and preferences.

Question 10

Can the care plan change over time?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. Care plans are reviewed regularly and updated as your loved one's needs evolve. If you ever feel the plan needs adjustment, simply contact your care coordinator and we will arrange a reassessment.

Question 11

How often will a caregiver visit?

Accepted Answer

Visit frequency depends on the care plan and physician orders. Skilled nursing and therapy visits are typically scheduled several times per week during the active phase of care. Home health aide visits can range from a few hours a day to daily support, depending on need.

Question 12

What is the difference between skilled nursing and a home health aide?

Accepted Answer

Skilled nursing is provided by a licensed registered nurse (RN) or licensed vocational nurse (LVN) and includes clinical tasks such as wound care, IV therapy, medication management, and health monitoring. A certified home health aide (CHHA) assists with personal care activities such as bathing, dressing, grooming, and light housekeeping under the supervision of a nurse.

Question 13

How are your caregivers screened and trained?

Accepted Answer

All of our caregivers undergo thorough background checks, reference verification, and credential confirmation before joining our team. Our nurses and therapists hold active California licenses, and our home health aides are certified and receive ongoing supervision and training.

Question 14

Will my loved one always have the same caregiver?

Accepted Answer

We make every effort to provide consistent caregivers so your loved one can build a trusting relationship. While scheduling needs may occasionally require a substitute, we always ensure continuity of care by thoroughly briefing any covering caregiver on the patient's plan and preferences.

Question 15

What if we are not satisfied with a caregiver?

Accepted Answer

Your satisfaction and your loved one's comfort are our top priorities. If you have any concerns about a caregiver, please contact your care coordinator immediately. We will address the issue promptly and, if needed, arrange a replacement.

Frequently Asked Questions

Getting Started

Insurance & Payment

Care Plans & Services

Our Caregivers

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