Homebound Medicine
Our providers care for patients in their home or in a group facility, many of whom are considered “homebound” by Medicare standards. From wound treatment to primary care, our services are centered around providing high quality care to these patients.
What Does It Mean to Be Homebound?
Your doctor will determine if you are homebound after evaluating your condition. If you are eligible for Medicare’s home health benefit, your plan of care will also confirm your homebound status.
Medicare defines “homebound” in two ways:
- You need the help of another person or medical equipment (like crutches, a walker, or a wheelchair) to leave your home, or your doctor believes your health and illness would worsen if you left home.
- You find it difficult to leave home and typically do not.
Your doctor is required to re-evaluate and re-certify your plan of care every 60 days after you begin receiving home health care.
What Are the Exceptions to the Homebound Rule?
Even if you are homebound, you are permitted to leave your home without jeopardizing your status for specific reasons. These include:
- Medical treatments
- Religious services
- Attending a licensed or accredited adult day care center
You can also leave home for short periods for special non-medical events, such as a family reunion, funeral, or graduation. Occasional trips to the barber or beauty parlor are also allowed.
