Home health, also known as home health care, is a field that provides in-home medical care services. Individuals may seek home health while recovering from a surgery or illness, or while managing a chronic condition. Medically oriented home health providers are not physicians, but are registered nurses, nurse practitioners, or physical or occupational therapists. Home health providers may help patients regain physical function and self-sufficiency. Doctors may refer patients to home health care agencies or home health professionals to discuss care options. Home health providers collaborate with patients, their doctors, and patients' families to determine the length and manner of treatment. Frequent home health treatments can include:
In addition to these services, home health providers may monitor vital signs, verify consumption of special nutritional plans, and dispense oral medications and supplements. Home health providers regularly communicate with a patient's physician, medical team, and family to report health updates and recovery progress.
