You may be able to receive more frequent care for a short period of time (less than 8 hours a day and no more than 35 hours a week) if your provider decides. In most cases, if it's part-time or intermittent, you may be able to receive skilled nursing care and home health support services for up to 8 hours a day (combined), for up to 28 hours a week. You may be able to receive more frequent care for a short period of time (less than 8 hours a day and no more than 35 hours a week) if your provider decides it's necessary. Medicare generally covers home health care for a limited time. In the case of a standard care plan, coverage can last up to 60 days.
This period can be renewed if the need for care continues. The doctor must re-certify the need for care every 60 days. A home health assistant is formally trained to provide basic medical support, such as monitoring vital signs and following treatment regimens, while a caregiver provides more general assistance with activities of daily living. Medicare only covers home health aides when they're part of a larger specialized care plan, while general caregivers aren't usually covered.
When medical needs require home care, many older people and their families wonder if Medicare will cover care services.
