What types of home care agencies are there?
In Illinois, there are two main types of home health care agencies: certified agencies and private duty (or non-certified) agencies. Certified Agencies Certified home health care agencies comply with Medicare and Medicaid regulations. An individual’s Medicare benefit defines the conditions that qualify for service. The need for service typically arises after hospitalization or a significant change in medical condition. Care is prescribed by a physician and is generally restricted to skilled services that may include nursing; physical, occupational or speech/language therapy; medical social work; and/or home health aides to assist with personal care needs. While a physician must prescribe care, the patient has the right to select the provider of his/her choice. VNA of Rockford Illinois is a Medicare and Medicaid-certified agency. Private Duty Agencies Private duty agencies offer a wide variety of services including medical and non-medical care. For example, private duty services, in add