Billing and collection personnel assist the patient in obtaining insurance payments for equipment and services provided within the home. Home health agencies and DME companies are similar to the hospital in that they provide services to the patient continuously and year-round . Good communication skills are required by all personnel involved in the home healthcare field in order to facilitate patient compliance and acceptance. Good communication skills also promote a harmonious interaction, which is necessary to achieve competent patient care with minimal delay and maximal efficiency and continuity. Financial Considerations DME suppliers must minimally meet government standards if they plan to bill directly to Medicare.
Some states also require home health-related organizations to be licensed.
Hospice care is generally provided regardless of the patient's ability to pay. Public third-party payors include Medicare, Medicaid, the Veterans Administration and social services block grant programs. Some community organizations, such as chapters of the American Cancer Society, Alzheimer's Association and the National Easter Seal Society, provide funding to assist with payment for home care services. Most Americans older than 65 are eligible for the federal Medicare program. The referring physician must authorize and periodically review the patient's plan of care.