By Chelsie Niese, MSN, RN
Community Nurse Liaison, Bridge Home Health & Hospice
Home Health services are available to those facing many different types of health conditions that make it difficult to leave home. Maybe you or a loved one is newly diagnosed with diabetes, symptoms of your Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) are worsening or you require medication assistance. No matter the circumstance, you do not have to go through the journey alone. Home health services build upon the care and education received in your physician’s office, hospital or skilled nursing facility.

Home health focuses on helping you get better by regaining your independence and becoming as self-sufficient as possible. A variety of educational information and tools are utilized to help you maintain and improve your current condition or level of function to reduce decline and remain at home.

Your physician and home health care team will help to determine which services would benefit you the most. Home health clinicians learn your specific needs and preferences to create a plan that is right for you. You will learn how to enhance your health and wellness from the comfort of your own home. Your home health team will keep in contact with your doctor and update him or her on your progress.

Home health services may include nursing, home care aide, rehabilitation, physical therapy, occupational therapy and speech therapy. Social workers are also available to help find the resources you may need. They can assist you in planning for the next steps in your care and can help you find ongoing community services and support.

Home health is a great option to obtain the care, education and support you need to live your best life. It is about finding the right service, at the right time, in the right place. If you feel home health may be the right choice for you or a loved one, please reach out to a local home health agency or your physician. Your local agency will come to your home and answer any questions you may have.