Understanding Home Health, Hospice Care, and Preferred Pathways: What’s the Difference?
When it comes to healthcare, understanding the different types of care available can be overwhelming. A Path of Care is here to help you navigate these options. Let's break down the key differences between Home Health, Hospice Care, and Preferred Pathways.
Home Health: Medical Care at Home
A Path of Care Home Health provides skilled nursing and therapy to meet specific medical needs.Medical care is provided in your home, under the direction of your doctor. Licensed medical professionals help you manage chronic health conditions, like heart failure or diabetes. They can help you recover after surgery or a hospital stay. Care is “intermittent” instead of 24 hours a day. With Home Health, you can receive skilled nursing and therapy at home to manage chronic conditions and recover after surgery.
Hospice Care: Comfort and Support
A Path of Care Hospice helps those with a life-limiting illness. They treat symptoms of the disease, like pain or nausea, rather than treating the disease itself. Hospice nurses and doctors are skilled in the latest techniques to help relieve pain and improve your comfort. Social workers, chaplains, and volunteers also provide tremendous help and resources for patients and family members. Hospice care focuses on comfort, providing relief from pain and comprehensive support for families.
Preferred Pathways: Independence at Home
Preferred Pathways offers Medicaid ADvantage services. This is in-home care that allows people with specific needs to stay in their homes instead of moving to a long-term care facility. Our specially-trained employees help with daily activities so you can remain independent, such as personal hygiene, grooming, light housework, meal preparation, running errands, etc.
The program is available for patients who meet certain Medicaid eligibility requirements. With Preferred Pathways, you can stay independent at home with assistance for daily activities and Medicaid ADvantage support.
Choosing the Right Care
Deciding on the right type of care depends on your specific needs. Home Health is ideal for those needing medical care at home. Hospice Care is best for those seeking comfort during a life-limiting illness. Preferred Pathways is perfect for individuals wanting to stay independent in their own homes with some daily assistance.
Understanding these differences ensures you or your loved ones get the appropriate care needed. Always consult with healthcare professionals to determine the best care option for your situation.
At A Path of Care, we provide skilled in-home care when and how you need it. By choosing us, you'll always know where to turn when you hit a roadblock in your journey to better health.
