On June 23rd of this year, former U.S. Senator Mark Begich, from Anchorage Alaska, joined the National Association for Home Care & Hospice in Baltimore for a visit with Johns Hopkins Home Care group. During his visit, Begich expressed that “having home care is an important part of healthcare” and it is critical for many patients that they remain at home. Also present during the visit was a home care nurse and the family she cares for, who expressed that they feel the Home Care Industry is becoming increasingly important.
Most people are more comfortable in their own home in lieu of a hospital emergency room or a nursing home, according to an elderly couple interviewed by Begich. The couple also stated that home care is better for elderly patients who need emergency attention, as they do not have to wait long hours to receive treatment. Rather than sitting around waiting for a doctor to see the patient while their condition potentially worsens, they have instant access to help via their home care health provider.
Moreover, many patients view home care nurses as extended family, and the care they receive from these individuals keeps them out of nursing homes, which may be the key benefit of home care. According to National Health Statistics Reports recently published by the CDC, an estimated 27 million individuals will need some type of long-term care by 2050. Most of these individuals have or are expected to have multiple chronic health issues.
Home care and hospice services are integral in enabling these individuals to receive services in the comfort of their homes, limiting the necessity for a nursing home stay. In turn, these services reduce the overpopulation of nursing homes and other long-term care facilities, putting less strain on caregivers within these organizations.
Home care doesn’t always get the attention it deserves. Yet, these services are relied upon by many people looking to reduce incidents of re-admittance to the hospital, receive more personal follow up care, increase communication between patients and healthcare providers, and even decrease medication errors.
At Manchester Specialty Programs, we understand that running a home care agency is not easy. As changes take place within this industry and with healthcare overall, it’s imperative for these agencies to ensure they are financially protected from any legal claims that may occur.
Our comprehensive home health care and hospice provider insurance program is designed to help home care agencies continue to provide the important services they offer throughout our communities. We deliver specialty insurance programs that are specifically designed for home care and hospice firms in both medical and support roles. To find out more about our operation and all our specialty insurance programs, you or your local insurance broker can give us a call today at 855-972-9399.