Home Health Support Resources

A Word on Support

Kaweah Health Home Health Services offers these helpful tips and resources for:

Caregivers

Caregiver Support

Are you the primary caregiver for a loved one who is incapable of caring for themselves? If so, Kaweah Health Home Health is here for you. We understand the incredible challenges you are facing. It’s an overwhelming responsibility to look after another person’s well being when you have a busy life of your own. But we’re here to cater to not just the patient’s needs, but your needs as well. You’re probably feeling stressed, and that’s natural. With Kaweah Health Home Health on your team, we’ll ensure that all of your loved one’s needs are met in a timely manner, and you still have time for yourself.

Things you’ll need to think about as a primary caregiver:

Choosing the right home care provider - If you want only the best for your loved one, you’ve come to the right place. Kaweah Health Home Health has been providing high-quality, compassionate care for the past 32 years. As the only hospital-based home health provider in Visalia, we are backed by a name you know you can trust-Kaweah Health Medical Center. No other home health agency in the area can claim the same. In addition, we offer a full-line of in-home services that are simply unparalleled by other local agencies. These include certified wound care, chemotherapy and psychiatric nurses, speech therapy and even pediatrics. With over 14 therapists from a variety of different disciplines and over 25 dedicated home care nurses, we have the capacity to ensure your loved one always has the care they need.
Caring for the Caregiver - In order to give your loved one the care they deserve, you must care for yourself, as well. It’s important to keep a regular routine, which includes eating right, exercising, and taking a few moments each day to do something just for you. But when the stress simply becomes too much, we are here. We can offer education, guidance, or simply an outlet for caregivers who are physically and emotionally exhausted. Don’t be afraid to call and ask for help, it will be best for you and your loved one if you do.
Financial Decisions - Dealing with your loved one’s financial matters is a major undertaking that can easily overwhelm you. If you have questions, we have answers. Our medical social workers have a wealth of experience in dealing with our patients’ financial issues, and can help you navigate the complex world of insurance, medical billing, and the reimbursement process. We will work directly with insurance companies and Medicare or Medi-Cal on your behalf so you can focus on what’s most important-the health of your loved one.
End of Life Issues - When your loved one is facing a life-limiting illness, you and your family will have to make some extremely difficult decisions. We understand that this is a very trying time for you, and we will do everything we can to give you the support you need. Kaweah Health Home Health offers palliative care to help manage pain and make patients feel as comfortable as possible while they continue medical treatments. Kaweah Health also offers Hospice Care for patients with a life expectancy of six months or less. Both services provide compassionate care for patients and families while respecting their privacy during this difficult time. When it comes to making end of life decisions, our medical social workers are always available to guide you through this process and help answer any questions you may have.
Additional Resources - Kaweah Health Home Health partners with many local agencies and organizations that will help you better care for your loved one. For more information, please visit our Resources page.

For Patients

Patient Support - You need a helping hand, but you want to stay in your own home. At Kaweah Health Home Health, we understand. In fact, we believe that in many cases, keeping a patient in their home environment can be beneficial to the healing process.

If you’re considering a home health agency, you no doubt have questions. We’ve answered some of the most common ones below. Please Contact Us any time to learn more about Kaweah Health Home Health and the services and benefits it can provide you.

Is Home Health right for me?

The first thing to consider when selecting a home health agency is your needs. While it’s hard to predict the future, your current living situation and your existing health status are major factors in the levels of home health care services you may need down the road. Talk to your doctor about what kinds of ongoing health maintenance you might require to determine if a home health service might be beneficial to you.

What services do we offer?

Besides a comprehensive Home Health program we also have a private home care division that can customize plans to meet your home care needs. From around the clock certified nursing aide care and hourly assistance to help with meals and transportation. Please visit our Services section for details about the in-home care we provide.

Personal care-bathing toileting, help getting dressed
Safety-We can oversee the installation of a medical alert system in your home should you have concerns about falling with no one around to help you.
Homemaking-Our private home care staff can help you with general household chores such as cleaning and laundry.
Transportation-We can drive you to doctor’s appointments and help you run errands.
Meals-Our home health aides can assist with meal preparation.
Living quarter assessment and enhancement-We’ll make sure everything in your home is safe and designed to help you live as independently as possible.
Finances-Our management staff can assist with bills and help you understand and complete confusing health insurance forms.

Can I afford Home Health?

Private insurance, Medicare, and Medi-Cal cover many home health care services such as skilled nursing visits, and therapy services. There are specific criteria required by these insurances. It’s important to know what is covered and what isn’t prior to becoming a Home Health patient. Contact us today for more information. Most insurance, unless you have long term care insurance, does not cover hourly attendant care in the home but remember, out of pocket costs are often offset when you consider the savings you’ll experience-not to mention the peace of mind-of staying in your own home.

How do I know what services I’ll need?

Since every patient is different, we offer customized plans designed for any need. Once you become a Home Health patient, we will complete a thorough assessment of your health status and psychosocial needs to determine with you the plan that’s right for you.