Amedisys Home Health - Thomasville

The Keys to Understanding Heart Failure and Home Health CareHeart disease is the number one cause of disability and death in the United States todayaccording to the CDC, some 85.6 million Americans live with some form of cardiovascular disease. A major and growing public health problem, an estimated 6.2 million people in our country suffer specifically from heart failure.What is Heart FailureHeart failure is a chronic, long-term condition in which the heart doesnt pump blood as efficiently or effectively as it should. Despite the name, heart failure does not mean that the heart has actually failed; it means that the heart muscle has weakened or has a mechanical problem that limits its ability to function. As a result, the heart can no longer meet the demands of the body and there is not enough oxygen-rich blood reaching the cells.As the damage progresses, it will lead to fluid building up in the lungs, which will cause shortness of breath. The kidneys begin to retain water and sodium, which can lead to kidney failure. Edema sets in and can affect the extremities and other organs.The stages of heart failure:Stage A: A person has not yet developed heart failure but has a high risk due to one or more pre-existing conditions, such as:High blood pressureCoronary artery diseaseDiabetesStage B: A person has not developed heart failure or its symptoms, but has received a diagnosis of systolic left ventricular dysfunction.Stage C: A person has ongoing or past symptoms of heart failure and currently has structural heart disease.Stage D: A person has advanced heart failure that is difficult to manage with standard treatment.There is no cure, however with medical intervention, treatment options and lifestyle changes, the condition can be managed quite well.How Will Heart Failure Affect Quality of Life?Heart failure is a leading cause of hospitalization for those over the age of 65 and represents a significant clinical burdenthere are few diseases that take a greater toll on our healthcare system. About half of hospital readmissions are related to the comorbidities and/or mismanagement of the symptoms of heart failure.One of the biggest concerns for patients post discharge is how to live with this disease and have access to healthcare during this ongoing journey. Heart failure often goes hand-in-hand with other serious health conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, atrial fibrillation, kidney issues, and COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease). Most people with heart failure have at least one other significant cardiovascular condition, making living at home independently a challenge that needs careful monitoring.Patients will need to rely on more support and resources; those who lack this intervention will often end up readmitted.It is crucial to implement appropriate interventions through comprehensive discharge instructions and having a plan of care in place to maintain stability and quality of life. With proper management of medications, suitable lifestyle changes and a specifically tailored care plan, patients with heart failure can live longer, healthier, more comfortable lives.Amedisys provides an interdisciplinary heart failure program with a range of home health care services to help patients manage their condition at home, supporting their health and wellness and promoting independence. Our compassionate, interdisciplinary team works collaboratively with physicians to determine the best course of action, and also often includes specialized and skilled nursing care, physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy and social work.Our approach is also to provide patients and caregivers with the education that they need to monitor symptoms and maintain a healthy lifestyle. We consider patients and their support network to be valuable members of our team, as they make a tremendous difference in enhancing and improving quality of life.We help patients manage their conditions by providing them with:Education about medicationsProper diet and nutrition informationTechniques for improvements in strength and mobilityDaily exercise routinesHelp to monitor vital signsMonitoring heart failure symptomsWeight monitoring and managementTips on what to do if symptoms worsenThe goal is a combined prevention and symptom management strategy aimed at maintaining wellness, slowing disease progression and reducing the need for emergency room visits and hospital readmission. By providing education and skilled transitional and continuing care, we support many patients' preference to recover and remain in their homes.This article was submitted by Amedisys with locations in Bay Minette, Brewton, Citronelle, Foley, Mobile, Monroeville, and Thomasville, Alabama.

Who is Eligible for Home Health Care Under Medicare?Medicare is a federal health insurance program that serves as a vital support system for people aged 65 and older.  Patients may be eligible for Medicare earlier if they have certain disabilities, End-Stage Renal Disease or ALS.  Among Medicares unique benefits is home health care, which provides skilled nursing, therapies and other care services to those with specific health needs.Basic Eligibility for Medicare Home Health Care BenefitsTo be eligible for Medicare home health care benefits, the patient must meet several key criteria to help determine if the patients condition and home environment warrant home health care benefits.Patients may be eligible for home health if they meet the following criteria:Being HomeboundA patient is homebound if they are unable to leave their home or must go through considerable effort when doing so, or that leaving home is not recommended because of their medical condition. Homebound status is determined by the patients primary care physician based on physical limitations, such as disabilities, surgery recovery, severe illness or cognitive impairment.Demonstrating a Medical NeedIn addition to being homebound, the patient must require intermittent skilled nursing care or skilled therapy services.Physician Approval/Face-to-Face EncounterThe patients physician must authorize home health care services and review the patients care plan regularly.The patient must have the required face-to-face encounter with their physician within the timeframes required by Medicare. The encounter must also be related to the primary reason you need home health care.Choosing Medicare-Certified Home Health AgencyThe agency providing care must be certified by Medicare. Common Conditions Among Patients Requiring Home Health CareHome health care services cater to a wide range of conditions commonly experienced by patients aged 65 and above. These conditions often require comprehensive care by an interdisciplinary team.A few of the conditions commonly found among patients of home health care include: Congestive heart failure, hypertension and other heart conditions Diabetes and accompanying issues Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and other lung conditions Stroke Cancer Recovery from total knee or hip or other orthopedic procedures Wounds related to pressure injuries or other conditions Chronic kidney disease Dementia, Alzheimers Disease or Parkinsons Disease A home health care plan tailored to a patient's needs can effectively address these conditions, providing the necessary support to promote well-being, independence and quality of life for patients while helping to avoid unnecessary hospitalizations.Circumstances That May Lead to Discharge from Home Health CareSeveral circumstances may negate a patients basic eligibility and lead to the termination of home health care. These factors include: No longer homebound: The patients condition improves to a point where they are no longer considered homebound by their primary care physician. No longer requires skilled care: The patient no longer requires skilled nursing care or therapy services initially determined to be necessary. Patient reaches established goals: The patient achieves the health goals established at the beginning of the care plan. Patient desire to discharge home health care services: The patient expresses the desire to discharge from home health. Types of Care Covered Under Medicare Home Health CareMedicare home health care provides a wide range of skilled nursing, therapy and support services to address the medical and therapeutic needs of eligible patients depending on their needs.Skilled nursing care includes: Observation assessment: Nurses conduct a comprehensive head-to-toe assessment to determine if the patient can receive care safely from home. During observation and assessment, the skilled nurse evaluates changes in the patients condition and updates the patients physician to facilitate treatment plan changes. This includes monitoring the effectiveness of medications. Hands-on care: Nurses provide care that requires medical expertise and training, such as wound care, catheter care, tube feeds, ostomy care, injection administration and other specialized treatments. Teaching and training: Empowerment guides patients and their caregivers in managing their own health. Medication administration: Nurses administer prescribed medications (injections and infusions), excluding oral medication, which is not covered as a skilled service. Psychiatric nursing: Some home health agencies like Amedisys, in some markets, offer trained psychiatric nurses for mental health treatments. Therapy services include: Physical therapy helps patients manage pain and regain strength and mobility. Speech therapy assists with speech and language disorders. Occupational therapy aids patients in regaining or enhancing daily living skills (bathing, grooming, dressing and other self-care activities). Additional dependent services are available once the patient has a qualifying need for skilled nursing or skilled therapy services, including: Home health aides: Aide services assist the patient with hands-on personal care. Medical social work services: Social workers help resolve social or emotional problems that impact the patients recovery or treatment plan. Services Not Included in Medicare Home Health CareIts important to be aware of services not included in Medicares home health care benefit. Although some of these may be necessary for your needs, you dont want to be in a situation in which you expect to have certain services covered but end up with a significant medical bill. Uncovered services include: 24-hour care: Home health care is intermittent. Continuous, round-the-clock care is not provided. Oral drug administration: Oral administration of medication is not covered.  Homemaker services: This includes any non-medical assistance, such as housekeeping tasks and shopping assistance. Supplemental Services Outside of the Medicare Home Health Care BenefitAlthough Medicare covers core home health care services, certain services not covered by Medicare might be essential to a patients well-being. These home and community-based services may vary according to the patients location and program requirements. Patient eligibility is determined through a patient assessment with approval from a patient's primary care physician or social worker. Services like these include:  Meals on Wheels Homemaker services Housekeeping Shopping assistance These non-medical services are generally funded through out-of-pocket payments or community resource programs. Patients eligible for Medicaid or Veterans Affairs (VA) benefits may receive additional support. To find out more, contact your insurance plan or a home health care agency that connects patients with these external resources. Costs for Medicare Home Health CareUnderstanding associated costs is crucial for patients and their families when deciding to elect Medicare home health services. Its always important to fully understand the cost of benefits from your agency of choice, but the following key points are a great place to start:No Out-of-Pocket Costs for Medically Necessary ServicesFor eligible patients, Medicare covers the costs of all home health care services deemed necessary by the physician, ensuring that these patients do not have to pay out of pocket.Transparency in Medicare CoverageThe home health care agency is responsible for informing the patient of all costs associated with Medicare coverage. This level of transparency allows patients to plan and manage their healthcare expenses.Partial Responsibility for Medical EquipmentWhen a patient requires Medicare-covered medical equipment, Medicare may be responsible for covering 20 percent of the cost. Work with medical equipment provider to receive an estimate to help anticipate and manage out-of-pocket expenses.Next Steps for Home Health CareIf you or your loved one has been diagnosed with a severe or chronic illness, open communication and timely action can significantly impact the quality of care and support. Take these recommended next steps if you think home health care is the right choice:1. Facilitate open communication.If possible, encourage your loved one to communicate their wishes and desires with you and other family members and caregivers. Ensure everyone involved is aware of your or your loved ones preferences and goals for care.2. Contact an agency for connections to resources.A reputable agency can facilitate access to necessary resources. In addition to offering access to essential services, the right agency can provide comprehensive support for a seamless care experience.3. Consider agencies with a full continuum of care.A full continuum of care provides a comprehensive range of healthcare services that address an individuals care needs across different stages of illness or recovery.Choose an agency that offers a full continuum of care so you or your loved one can smoothly transition from one program to another, if necessary. This approach ensures they receive consistent, uninterrupted care tailored to their care needs.Severe or chronic illnesses create many challenges, but navigating Medicare home health care benefits shouldn't be one of them.Contact Amedisys Home Health Care in the South Alabama Area with locations in Bay Minette: 251-580-8236, Brewton: 251-809-1717, Citronelle: 251-866-3261, Foley: 800-763-6382, Mobile: 251-380-0492 and Monroeville: 866-334-0260.

Reducing Avoidable Hospitalizations Due to UTIs Urinary tract infections (UTIs) remain a significant driver of care complications and hospital admissions each year in the United States, especially for older adults. As the second most common type of infection, UTIs are very common in the U.S. In fact, about 10 in 25 women and 3 in 25 men will experience UTI symptoms during their lifetime. In older adults, UTIs are the third leading cause for hospitalization for infection and impact many home health care patients each year. Further complicating the picture for this patient population is the fact that symptoms of a urinary tract infection in older populations often present atypically, especially in those with Alzheimers and other forms of dementia. To avoid costly hospital stays, its important to follow current evidence-based practices to identify and manage UTIs in elderly populations. Common UTI SymptomsCommon risk factors for UTI in older adults include previous history of UTI, multiple comorbidities, exposure to infectious pathogens (more common in long-term care facilities), reduced immunity (common with aging) and urinary catheter use. Of identified infections, Escherichia coli (E. coli) is the most common cause. Monitoring for the following signs of UTI in older adults can support proactive diagnosis: Classic UTI SymptomsBecause UTIs affect different parts of the urinary system, symptoms might present differently:          Infection in the kidneys can come with back or side pain         Infection in the bladder can come with pelvic pressure, lower belly discomfort and frequent, painful urination         Infection in the urethra can come with burning during urination and possible discharge         In cases of severe infection, fever and chills, nausea, vomiting, and abnormal urine odor can be late symptoms.         For some older adults, these classic symptoms might be harder to recognize because of a suppressed immune response. UTI Symptoms Specific to Older AdultsFor older adults, symptoms might also include: Mental status changes like confusion or unusual behavior         Incontinence         Agitation         Lethargy         Falling         Urinary retention         Decreased mobility         Decreased appetite How to Avoid UTIs in Elderly Populations Late signs of UTI are cause for alarm, with 25% of sepsis cases attributable to UTIs. Some tips for helping prevent UTIs in vulnerable populations include: 1. Understand common risks in older adults.A persons health history can reveal a lot about their likelihood of experiencing a UTI. For example, diabetes can impact the immune systems response to defense against germs. Bladder incontinencecommon in older populationscan also increase the risk of a UTI. 2. Encourage adequate fluid intake.Research supports increasing hydration (if not on a fluid restricted diet) as a strategy for reducing risk of UTI. Staying hydrated can also help improve immune response. 3. Avoid urinary tract irritants.Coffee, alcohol, highly acidic foods and carbonated soft drinks are common urinary tract irritants that should be avoided during a UTI. However, if someone is prone to UTIs, its best practice to avoid these irritants in general. 4. Encourage proper hygiene.In addition to taking daily showers, regularly changing underwear and washing clothes consistently, those who require incontinence briefs should change several times a day. 5. Avoid urinary catheters.Catheter-acquired urinary tract infections (CAUTIs) are a significant source of infection and related healthcare costs each year in the United States. Initiatives to reduce the use of catheters have shown large reductions in the rate of infection. Reducing Avoidable HospitalizationIf a UTI does occur, partnering with a home health provider that prioritizes a strong evidence-based UTI protocol can help ensure patients avoid hospitalization. At Amedisys, our UTI protocol includes advanced molecular testing for rapid identification of urinary pathogens with more accurate results and targeted treatment recommendations. In addition to proactive management of UTI symptoms, our nurses provide education on proper hygiene, symptoms of UTI to watch for and measures to prevent UTIs. This includes support for coexisting conditions that increase the risk of UTI, with resources like our home health diabetes care program to help patients lead healthier lives.  To help prevent UTIs in your patients, we created a resource highlighting just what you need to know so that you can do your job more efficiently. Download and print out a copy of Reducing Avoidable Hospitalizations Due to UTIs.

What Conditions and Illnesses Can Home Health Care Treat?Heart Failure or Other Heart ConditionsStrokeDiabetesCOPD or Other Respiratory ConditionsAlzheimer's/Dementia/ConfusionCancerMultiple Chronic ConditionsSerious Illness (Pneumonia, Infection, Flu)Joint Replacement or Surgery (Knee, Hip, Shoulder)Falls, Dizziness or Loss of BalanceTrouble Eating/SwallowingDepressionAmputationMedications1. Heart Failure or Other Heart ConditionsWhen you or a loved one has heart problems, like heart attack or heart failure, you need a support system to recover and establish a healthy lifestyle. Home health care:Provides the medical care needed to recoverMonitors for early warning signsHelps lower anxietyWorks one-on-one to teach techniques for managing heart conditions2. StrokeCoordinated nursing and specialty therapy services can help people who have suffered a stroke recover functionality and regain as much independence as possible. Physical, occupational and speech therapy can help you regain the ability to do everydaytasks and communicate wants and needs with loved ones.3. DiabetesLiving with diabetes requires constant vigilance to monitor and adjust blood sugar and intervene at the first sign of problems. If you or your loved one has been recently diagnosed with diabetes, home health care can teach you how to manage your condition andprevent the serious consequences of advanced diabetes. When dealing with uncontrolled diabetes, proper self-management with added medical care is essential. Home health care can help you or your loved one recover from complications like slow-healing wounds, infections and amputations. Amedisys home health nurses and therapists are experts at helping patients heal from these complications.4. COPD or Other Respiratory ConditionsChronic respiratory conditions like COPD sap a persons energy. It takes so much effort just to breathe that fatigue, muscle weakness and malnutrition are common. It takes careful management to prevent flare-ups and maintain quality of life. For homeboundpatients, home health may be able to help. Home health nurses and therapists can work together to help you or your loved one have more energy by:Identifying triggers that cause flare-upsImproving exercise tolerance and strengthPerforming daily tasks more efficientlyInstructing how to manage shortness of breath5. Alzheimers/Dementia/ConfusionDementia and other diseases that affect the mind are some of the most difficult and stressful. Fortunately, treatments exist that can improve quality of life and help keep you or your loved one home longer. For example:Physical therapy may help you or your loved one increase strength and mobility.Occupational therapy can address daily routines. It can also train caregivers to provide appropriate cues and support for patients with cognitive limitations. This improves the patients ability to do daily activities. It can also reduce agitation or confusion.Speech therapy can maximize the patients preserved cognitive abilities. The speech pathologist helps educate the family and caregivers as the patients disease progresses.For patients with behavioral issues, a psychiatric nurse can figure out if medication is making agitation, aggression or other problems worse. They can also help recognize and treat depression, which can have many of the same symptoms as dementia.A medical social worker can help connect family caregivers with community support resources.6. Cancer Those undergoing treatment for cancer face the risk of secondary infections, side effects and poorly healing wounds. Home health care helps manage these complications and promote healing so you or your loved one can focus on fighting the cancer.7. Multiple Chronic ConditionsIf you or a loved one is dealing with multiple chronic conditions, youre likely taking numerous medications and seeing several specialists. It may be a difficult balancing act trying to manage all the symptoms, medications and side effects.Home health care helps:Manage MedicationsMonitor early warning signsTeach you and your caregiver how to manage your healthImprove your quality of lifeConnect you with community resources and home care aides to help with daily needs like bathing and dressing8. Serious Illness (Pneumonia, Infection, Flu)When you or a loved one is recovering from a serious illness, the care and monitoring of a skilled nurse can help speed healing. A home health nurse can administer IV medicine and recognize early warning signs to reduce the risk of serious complications.9. Joint Replacement or Surgery (Knee, Hip, Shoulder)Recovering from a joint replacement often requires specialized physical and/or occupational therapy to quickly regain flexibility and strength. With limited mobility after surgery, home health care can play an important role in getting you or your loved one back on your feet.10. Falls, Dizziness or Loss of BalanceFalls account for 95% of all hip fractures in the elderly. They are the leading cause of death in those over 65. And 15% of people discharged from the hospital will be readmitted within a month due to a fall or fall-related injury. Preventing falls is a high priority.Approximately two-thirds of all injuries reported to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention occurred in the bathtub or shower, and about half were precipitated by bathing or showering, slipping, or getting out of the tub or shower. To help decrease the risk of a fall, in-home physical and occupational therapists:Work to improve your strength, mobility, balance and motor skillsAddress environmental risks in the homeMake recommendationsProvide techniques and equipment to make you safer in your home11. Trouble Eating/SwallowingIf you or your loved one is having trouble swallowing, youre not alone. Swallowing disorders (dysphagia) affect approximately 15 million Americans. A speech-language pathologist can evaluate swallowing by looking at your strength, muscle range of motion, andability to safely eat or drink. Based on this evaluation, they determine the best exercises, positions and techniques for your needs.12. DepressionWhen confronted by serious health issues and decreasing independence, many people develop depression. But growing older doesnt have to mean living with depression. A multidisciplinary home health care approach may help.Nurses and therapists can provide skilled care and teach self-management for chronic conditions. Behavioral health specialists can help you or your loved one overcome grief, depression and anxiety.13. AmputationIf you or your loved one has lost a limb, you may benefit from specialized rehabilitation. This may include:Home nursing to help healingPhysical and occupational therapy to regain strength and as much independence as possible14. MedicationsCertain medications are frequently involved in medication-related hospitalizations. Examples include:Coumadin/Warfarin and other anti-clotting drugsInsulin and oral diabetic medicationsDifficulty managing medications is a dangerous situation. Medication problems account for as much as one-third of all emergency hospitalizations among seniors. Be sure to talk to your doctor about your medication schedule and what to do if you forget a dose. You might ask for a medication diary or pill box that could help manage medications. A doctor may prescribe home health care to teach you or your loved one about medications and monitor your condition to prevent complications. Home health care can help treat other conditions and issues as well. Click here to take our home health care assessment to find out if home health care is right for you or a loved one. Or call your local Amedisys center and well be glad to answer anyquestions you have.