Status of Home Health Care in Southern Wisconsin. A Staff Report of Certified Home Health Care Programs.

摘要

Need, utilization, availability, and financing aspects of home health care services in the State of Wisconsin are reviewed. Primary emphasis is placed on those agencies certified by the Wisconsin Division of Health as complying with the conditions of participation for Medicare reimbursement. The study report is based on a survey of certified home health agencies conducted in May 1975 and on a supplemental questionnaire administered in February 1976 to update information regarding the operation and utilization of area home care programs during 1975. The survey consisted of a mailed self-administered questionnaire that was sent to 12 of the 13 certified home health agencies. The benefits of home health care services are detailed. Organizational and financing characteristics of home health care services are examined. Data on the need for home health services are provided, along with data on the utilization of home health services. The availability of basic home health services is addressed in terms of professional nursing services, physical therapy services, home health aide services, occupational therapy, speech therapy, medical supplies and equipment, and medical social services. The availability of other essential services is discussed, including home delivered meals, homemaker service, audiological services, dental services, transportation, and laboratory services. A discussion on private third party reimbursement for home health care is presented. Appended information includes an inventory of certified home health care programs and providers of home-delivered meals in southern Wisconsin. A bibliography is included.