Which Service is Right for Me?

	Home Health	Hospice
What Is it?	Home Health care allows patients to receive needed health care services, while surrounded by family and friends at home reducing the time it takes to recover from illnesses, injuries or surgery, and shorten hospital stays. A nurse or a therapist will teach patients how to manage their illness through education and training, so they may achieve the highest level of independence possible while remaining in their home.	Hospice is comfort care, specifically designed to address the physical, emotional, social and spiritual needs for those facing end of life, and support for their families.
Who Is It For?	Anyone recovering from a serious injury, surgery, illness, or those needing medication or pain management.	Hospice care is for people who are nearing end-of-life, typically a person with a prognosis of six months or less to live. Hospice provides symptom and pain management for patients with serious illness, no matter their age, culture, beliefs, or cause of illness.
What Does It Treat?	Helps individuals to improve function Live with greater independence Assist the patient to remain at home Avoiding costly hospitalizations	Develop an individualized care plan focused on the patient’s goals and wishes Comfort care Pain control and symptom management Improve quality of life
Where is Care Received?	Home Hospital Nursing Home Assisted Living Facility	Home Hospital Nursing Home Assisted Living Facility
What Is The Cost?	In most cases, home health care services are fully covered by Medicare. In addition, services can be paid by Medicaid, Veterans Administration (VA), private health insurances and/or private pay.	Covered by Medicare, Medicaid, and most private insurance.
What Services Are Included?	Skilled Nursing Care Physical Therapy Occupational Therapy Home Health Aide Medical Social Worker Speech Therapy Diet & Nutritional Guidance Coordination of Durable Medical Equipment (DME)	24/7 On-Call Hospice Support Physician-Directed Care Nursing Visits Medical Equipment & Supplies Medications Medical Social Services Emotional Spiritual Comfort Physical & Occupational Therapy Dietary Counseling Volunteer Companionship Veteran Services Grief & Bereavement Support Short-term inpatient care