Home health services provide essential medical support in the comfort of a patient’s home, designed for individuals who may have difficulty getting to a clinic or hospital but still need skilled nursing or therapy services. Home health services, ordered by a primary physician or following a hospital or skilled nursing facility stay, bring vital care directly to a patient’s doorstep.
“Home health allows us to work as a team across skilled nursing, physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy to promote independence for both the patient and family. Our goal is to support patients as they regain independence and improve their quality of life—all while remaining safely in their homes,” said Maria Gannaway, a Blount Memorial Home Services nurse with 27 years of experience.
The team approach Blount Memorial Home Services takes is comprehensive, aiming to manage a variety of patient needs. Skilled nursing focuses on teaching disease management for conditions such as congestive heart failure, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and diabetes. Nurses also provide specialized wound care following surgeries and help patients manage medications to ensure they are taking the right doses at the right times.
In therapy, physical and occupational therapists work to improve strength, endurance and mobility, addressing issues related to knee or hip challenges and working on pain management through techniques such as dry needling. For patients recovering from a stroke or other neurological conditions, speech therapy addresses swallowing difficulties and supports cognitive health through the Brain Health Enrichment Program, which is designed to help patients manage memory and other cognitive challenges.
“Home Services often is mistaken for a personal care agency,” Gannaway explained, “but there are key differences.” Home health services generally are covered by insurance when there’s a documented medical need or recent change in health status. Home health services are focused on short-term, skilled assistance with the ultimate goal of helping patients become more independent. In contrast, personal care agencies provide maintenance or custodial care, often focusing on routine daily activities. These services typically are paid out-of-pocket and may be needed for longer periods without the goal of improving medical status.
While there are many advantages, home health also faces challenges. “One of the challenges we work through is connecting families to available community resources,” noted Gannaway. To address this need, home health teams often include medical social workers who specialize in locating support resources, from financial assistance to community programs, that might benefit patients and their families.
Choosing home health services can make a significant difference for patients who want the reassurance and comfort of being at home but need structured, skilled medical support. “Home health allows patients to avoid extended hospital stays or rehabilitation facilities, supporting their safety and independence. And family members are a significant part of this care, as we work closely with them to provide the best outcomes,” said Gannaway.
Home health is an invaluable resource, bringing compassionate, comprehensive care directly to patients where they are most comfortable. This approach to care promotes both independence and quality of life, allowing patients to safely manage their health at home.
For more information about Blount Memorial Home Services, call 865-981-2160 or visit blountmemorial.org/homeservices.
