Navigating pediatric home health care can feel overwhelming for families new to the process, especially when caring for a child with complex medical needs. At Family First Homecare, we understand that parents have many questions about how home care works, what services are available, and how it can benefit their child. In this blog, we’ve compiled the top 10 frequently asked questions about pediatric homecare to provide clear answers, ease concerns, and help you make informed decisions for your child’s well-being.
1. What is it?
Home is not the hospital, and the hospital is not home. Homecare services allow children with short-term or chronic medical needs to receive safe and appropriate pediatric care in the comfort of their own homes. It includes preventive care (such as vaccinations and routine check-ups), diagnosis and treatment of illnesses and injuries, management of chronic conditions, and guidance on healthy growth and development. Our pediatric care program helps patients with complex medical needs continue their lives in the comfort of home.
2. What is the role of a pediatric home health nurse?
Pediatric homecare nurses have the privilege of providing one-on-one care and building lasting relationships with their patients. Many homecare nurses have different experiences, however their primary responsibility remains the same – to provide high-quality medical care. This includes assessing the patient, administering medication, documenting events that may occur, and more.
Some patients require nurses to go to school with them, while others spend their days at home, doing activities like listening to music, going outside, doing crafts, or playing with toys.
Read More: A Day in the Life of a Pediatric Homecare Nurse3. Will insurance cover it?
Many insurance plans, including Medicaid and some commercial insurance, cover pediatric home health care services. It’s important to review your specific policy or speak with your insurance provider to confirm coverage and understand any co-pays or out-of-pocket expenses.
Family First accepts a variety of insurance providers that you can see here. If you aren’t covered but are still interested in using Family First for your loved one’s homecare, please do not hesitate to reach out to us. As we acquire new patients, we are constantly working on ways to work with new insurance companies and payment options to ensure we are providing care to as many patients in need as possible.
4. What are the benefits of home care compared to hospital care?
Pediatric home healthcare offers several benefits compared to hospital care, particularly for children with chronic conditions, disabilities, or complex medical needs. Some of the key advantages include:
- Comfortability: Children feel more comfortable in their own home environments. Being in your usual surroundings with the people you love reduces stress and tension.
- Reduced Risk of Infections: For children with compromised immune systems, hospitals can be an exposure zone. Children can be introduced to other infections not usually present in their home.
- Flexibility: With pediatric homecare, you don’t have to worry about commuting to and from the hospital. This also means you can work around your family’s usual daily schedule.
Overall, home health care can be an effective alternative to hospital care, helping improve the child’s quality of life while reducing medical costs and fostering a family-centered approach.
5. How do I choose the right provider?
Choosing the right pediatric home healthcare provider is a crucial decision that impacts the quality of care your child will receive. Here are important factors to consider when selecting the right provider:
- Responsiveness: Does the provider offer 24/7 communication in the case of emergencies? Are they prompt and attentive when responding to concerns? It’s essential to choose a provider who can deliver timely care whenever your child needs it. Family First understands that reliability is everything. We can be reached anytime, any day.
- Reviews: Look at their reviews online to see their current client’s perspectives. Testimonials tell the story better than the provider can. Family First’s clients share their experiences here.
- Expertise: Ask about their experience with pediatric care. More specifically, do they have the resources to assist with your child’s unique needs? Verify that their nurses have the training and support to tend to your child’s unique needs. At Family First we ensure our nurses are qualified and trained in pediatric homecare through our Preceptor Program. We also require our nurses to attend annual skills training to ensure they stay up to date.
6. How will the agency and nurse communicate with me?
Effective communication is crucial in pediatric homecare. From the start, prioritize setting clear communication expectations. Determine the best methods to stay in contact with your agency and nurse at the beginning of your care journey so everyone is on the same page. Family First offers their clients 24/7 access to their team to allow transparency and reliability in communication.
7. What role will I, as the parent, play?
As a parent, you know your child best. Parents often serve as primary caregivers alongside the home health care team. You’ll be given training and resources to participate in your child’s day-to-day care and medical treatments. Family First nurses work with the parents to support them and allow them to be as involved as they’d like to be.
8. What happens if my child has an emergency at home?
The home health team, child’s doctor, and family will have a plan in place in the case of an emergency. All Family First nurses are trained in the case of an emergency.
9. How do I know if the care is effective?
Progress will be monitored regularly by both the homecare nurse and the child’s physician. They will track your child’s development and adjust the care plan as needed. If you have any concerns with the care you’re receiving, do not hesitate to reach out to your provider to address your concerns and adjust accordingly. Family First keeps a close eye on the care being provided and works in accordance with the child’s entire health care team to ensure they are receiving the right care for their individual needs.
10. How do I get started?
Now that your questions have been answered, you can decide what’s best for you and your loved one. If pediatric home health care services are right for your family, contact us. We can ensure you are eligible, covered, and confident in this new journey.