Home Care vs. Home Health in California: Understanding the Differences and Available Benefit Programs -

Home Care vs. Home Health in California: Understanding the Differences and Available Benefit Programs

1. Introduction to Home Care and Home Health

As people age or face health challenges, they often need additional support to maintain a high quality of life at home. Many Californians choose to receive this support through home-based care, which comes in two main forms: home care and home health.California has one of the most extensive networks of home-based service programs in the U.S., recognizing the importance of in-home support for older adults and people with disabilities. The state offers various benefits and financial assistance programs that help cover these services, making it easier for families to access the support they need without breaking the bank.

2. What is Home Care?

Home care in California refers to non-medical services that assist with daily living activities. Home care services can be essential for those who want to stay in their homes but need help with everyday tasks. The services offered under home care are generally non-medical, focusing instead on supporting a comfortable and independent life.

Types of Services in Home Care

Personal Care: Assistance with bathing, dressing, grooming, and toileting.
Housekeeping: Help with cleaning, laundry, and organizing.
Meal Preparation: Cooking, meal planning, and feeding assistance.
Companionship: Social interaction, conversation, and engaging in activities.
Transportation: Driving to appointments, errands, and social activities.

Who Provides Home Care?

In California, home care services are often provided by trained caregivers who do not need a medical license. These caregivers are typically employed by home care agencies that are regulated by the California Department of Social Services (CDSS).

California Programs That Support Home Care

Home care services in California may be partially funded or supported through specific benefit programs that help offset costs for low-income families and those in need.

3. What is Home Health?

Home health in California provides medical services at home, making it distinct from non-medical home care. Home health is typically used for individuals recovering from surgery, illness, or managing chronic conditions. These services are often prescribed by a doctor and are delivered by licensed healthcare professionals, including nurses, physical therapists, and medical social workers.

Types of Services in Home Health

Skilled Nursing Care: Wound care, IV therapy, injections, and health monitoring.
Physical Therapy: Exercises and treatments to improve mobility and strength.
Occupational Therapy: Helping regain skills for daily activities.
Speech Therapy: Assistance with speech, language, and swallowing.
Medical Social Work: Help accessing resources and managing care needs.

Who Provides Home Health?

Home health services in California are provided by licensed healthcare professionals who are employed by agencies certified by Medi-Cal (California’s Medicaid program).

California Programs That Support Home Health

Home health services are often covered by Medi-Cal and other insurance options, especially when prescribed by a doctor. California offers specific benefits for low-income and elderly residents, as well as support for individuals with disabilities.

4. Key Differences Between Home Care and Home Health

Knowing the main differences between home care and home health is essential when considering available benefit programs. Here’s a quick comparison:

Feature	Home Care	Home Health
Purpose	Daily living assistance	Medical care and therapy
Type of Services	Non-medical (personal care, chores)	Medical (nursing, therapy)
Provider	Caregivers or aides	Licensed nurses, therapists
Insurance Coverage	Often private pay, some state programs	Medi-Cal, Medicare, and private insurance
Prescribed by Doctor	Not necessary	Required

5. California Benefit Programs for Home Care

California offers several benefit programs that help residents access home care services. Here are some of the key programs available:

In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS)

The In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) program is one of the most significant sources of assistance for home care in California. IHSS helps pay for services that enable people to stay in their homes rather than move into nursing facilities. Services covered by IHSS include personal care, meal preparation, and cleaning.

Eligibility: IHSS is available to low-income seniors and individuals with disabilities who are Medi-Cal eligible.
How to Apply: Applications are processed through local county offices, and the process includes a home visit to assess needs.

California Community Transitions (CCT) Project

The CCT Project helps individuals who want to transition from a healthcare facility back to their home. It covers a range of services to support independent living, including home care support. This program is aimed at Medi-Cal beneficiaries and helps them return to community living with services suited to their needs.

Multipurpose Senior Services Program (MSSP)

MSSP is a program available in select California counties that provides care management and support services to help seniors remain in their homes. Services under MSSP can include personal care, transportation, and meal assistance.

Eligibility: Adults aged 65 and older who are Medi-Cal eligible and are at risk of nursing home placement.
How to Apply: MSSP services can be accessed through participating county offices or MSSP agencies.

Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE)

PACE is a Medicare and Medi-Cal program that provides comprehensive care for older adults who wish to stay at home. Services under PACE include both medical and non-medical care, including home care assistance.

Eligibility: Individuals aged 55 and older who qualify for nursing home-level care but can live safely in their homes.
How to Apply: Applications are processed through local PACE providers.

6. California Benefit Programs for Home Health

Home health services in California are typically medical and can be covered by various benefit programs, depending on eligibility.

Medi-Cal (California Medicaid)

Medi-Cal is California’s Medicaid program, which provides coverage for home health services for low-income individuals, including the elderly and disabled. Medi-Cal can cover skilled nursing, physical therapy, and medical equipment for those who meet the program’s requirements.

Eligibility: Based on income and medical need.
Services Covered: Skilled nursing, therapy, medical social services, and more.

Medicare

For those aged 65 and older, Medicare can cover certain home health services, especially if they are ordered by a doctor. Medicare Part A and Part B can cover nursing care, therapy, and some medical supplies.

Eligibility: Individuals over 65 or younger people with disabilities who qualify for Medicare.
How to Access: Services must be prescribed by a doctor and provided through a Medicare-approved agency.

California Community Transitions (CCT) Project

The CCT Project also covers medical services for individuals transitioning back to home care. It provides both personal and medical support, making it a hybrid option for home care and home health needs.

7. When to Choose Home Care or Home Health

Deciding between home care and home health in California depends on the specific needs of the individual and the type of support required. Here’s a guideline to help with the choice:

Choose Home Care if your loved one needs assistance with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, meal preparation, and household chores.
Choose Home Health if your loved one requires medical services such as nursing care, physical or occupational therapy, or chronic disease management. If a doctor has recommended these services, programs like Medi-Cal and Medicare may help cover the cost.

In certain situations, utilizing both Home Care and Home Health services could be valuable.

8. Additional Resources and Support in California

California has numerous additional resources to help families manage in-home care needs. Some key programs and organizations include:

California Department of Aging (CDA): Provides information on available services and assistance for older adults in California.
Area Agencies on Aging (AAA): Local agencies across California offer information on home care and health programs, helping families access the support they need.
Disability Rights California (DRC): Offers resources for individuals with disabilities seeking home care and home health options, as well as legal support.

9. FAQs about Home Care, Home Health, and California Benefits

Q1: Can I use both IHSS and Medi-Cal at the same time? Yes, many people use both IHSS for non-medical support and Medi-Cal for home health services to get comprehensive care at home.Q2: Are California’s home health services covered for all income levels? Home health services are primarily covered for low-income individuals under Medi-Cal, but those eligible for Medicare can also receive coverage regardless of income.Q3: Is a doctor’s prescription needed for home care? No, home care services do not require a prescription. However, home health services do require a doctor’s order.

Conclusion

California offers an array of benefit programs that make home care and home health services accessible for residents. Home care focuses on daily living support, while home health provides medical assistance, and both play essential roles in allowing individuals to stay in their homes. By taking advantage of California’s state-supported programs, families can ensure their loved ones receive the care they need without unnecessary financial strain.