Page 95 - LIVESTRONG Digital Guidebook
P. 95
Home Health
Care Needs
Some cancer patients require specialized health care assistance. This might happen during or after can-
cer treatment. Home health care services can provide certain types of temporary or ongoing medical care
at home. The goal is to make it possible to remain safe and comfortable at home while having a good
quality of life.
“It is important to have a great caregiver. — BOB B.
I do not think anyone can get through this on their own.”
HOME HEALTH CARE SERVICES Long-term care helps you adjust to and man-
age changes caused by health issues. It supports you
A member of your health care team might suggest to be at the highest level of function and health.
adding home health care services to your treatment
plan. This type of care is usually less expensive than Talk with your health care provider if home
care provided in a medical facility. Yet, if needed, health care services are needed. Discuss any prob-
you will be able to use hospitals or other health lems you are having with daily activities. Ask about
care facilities. the types of health care services that may be avail-
able to you at home. Your physician must prescribe
Home health care workers may include: the services in order for insurance to pay. Also, talk
• Home health aides with your insurance provider to find out about your
• Nurses plan’s home health care coverage. Ask the insurer to
• Social workers put information in writing for you.
• Physical therapists
• Occupational therapists Your physician, nurse, patient navigator or social
• Speech therapists worker can recommend specific, quality home health
care service providers in your area. Friends and loved
Home health services may include: ones may also have information to share.
• Lab draws
• Nutritional planning Ask your health care provider questions
• Home-delivered meals about home health care such as:
• Use of medical supplies or equipment
• Help with personal needs such as bathing • Would home health care services be helpful
• Administering medications such as antibiotics in my situation?
TYPES OF HOME HEALTH CARE • Will you prescribe home health care services?
• What types of services do you suggest?
There are generally two types of home health care • Do you recommend specific home health
services following an illness or injury:
care providers?
Short-term (or acute) care helps you take care of • Will my insurance cover all of the expenses of
yourself. It helps you to be as independent as possible.
home health care?
www.LIVESTRONG.org/WeCanHelp B : D U R I N G T R E AT M E N T D AY- T O - D AY C O N C E R N S 95
