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In some cases, home health care services may not be covered by a patient's Medicare, Medicaid, or private insurance. It could be that the senior's benefits have been exhausted or it could be that his or her insurance will not pay for the services. Whatever the reason, the fact is, many seniors and their families choose to pay for home health care services out of pocket. Why? Well, for one thing, paying out of pocket gives you greater flexibility in the type and amount of services you wish to order. Moreover, you can avoid the restrictions and limits of programs provided by the government and private insurers.
The services of most home health care workers can be purchased on a per hour or per visit basis (for home health aides, a four-hour minimum is the most common; for nurses, by the hour or visit is most common). In addition, individuals who live near each other (for example, in the same apartment building or apartment complex) may be able to effectively share an aide.
Many families find it helpful to contract for the services of someone who will create a comprehensive care plan for an older family member, and some families wish to have assistance in carrying out the plan. Nurse care managers and many specially trained nurses and social workers are able to provide such services. These services are generally available on an hourly basis.
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