FAQ  
What is the difference between Home Health and Home Care?
 

1. Type of Services Provided

Home Health:

• Medical care provided in the home

• Services include:

  • Skilled nursing (e.g., wound care, medication administration, monitoring vitals)

  • Physical, occupational, or speech therapy

  • Medical social work

• Typically ordered by a physician after hospitalization or illness

Home Care (also called personal care or non-medical home care):

• Non-medical support to help with daily living

• Services include:

  • Help with bathing, dressing, grooming

  • Meal preparation

  • Light housekeeping

  • Transportation and companionship

• Can be ongoing, not necessarily tied to a medical condition

2. Caregiver Qualifications

Home Health:

• Care provided by licensed professionals:

  • Registered Nurses (RNs)

  • Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs)

  • Physical/Occupational/Speech Therapists

• Requires medical oversight and care planning

Home Care:

• Provided by:

  • Home care aides

  • Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) in some states

• No medical license required, but training and certification may be needed depending on the state

3. Payment and Coverage

Home Health:

• Usually covered by Medicare, Medicaid, or private insurance

• Must be deemed medically necessary

• Requires a physician’s order

Home Care:

• Typically paid out of pocket, by long-term care insurance, or Medicaid (in some states)

• Not covered by Medicare unless part of a broader care plan