Always check with your insurance provider regarding terms of coverage. If you are older than 65, you may be eligible for the federal Medicare program. Patients who are homebound, under a physician's care and in need of medically necessary skilled nursing or therapy may be eligible for Medicare coverage. A physician must authorize and periodically review the home health care plan of the patient. Hospice care coverage by Medicare requires certification from a physician.
Eligibility varies from state to state.
Medicaid programs must cover home health care services such as part-time nursing, health care agency services, and medical supplies and equipment. Some states require the program to cover audiology, physical, occupational, and speech therapies and medical social services as well. Medicaid hospice care coverage is generally the same as Medicare. The Older Americans Act, enacted by Congress in 1965, funds state and local social service programs for frail and disabled older individuals to continue their independence in their communities. Coverage may include home health care agencies, personal care, meals, and shopping, to name a few.