There are several ways to pay for home-care services:
- Out of your own pocket;
- Through Medicare, Medicaid, or some other public programs;
- Through Medigap, long-term care insurance, or other commercial policies.
Outside assistance with paying for home care-services is generally limited and usually covers only short-term home health care needs. Eligibility for Medicare or Medicaid payment requires an agency to meet certain federal standards and provide skilled nursing services. That means these programs don’t pay for personal care or homemaker services. Persons eligible for coverage under the programs must be homebound and under a doctor’s care.
Choosing an Agency – Caregiving Checklist