The process for starting the Medicare home health benefit changes depending on whether you are currently in a hospital or if you are already at home. Remember, in both cases you must meet the eligibility requirements and qualify for coverage under either Part A or Part B.

• If you are in the hospital: A hospital social worker or discharge planner should arrange for a Medicare-certified home health agency (HHA) to visit you and assess your condition. If you qualify, you should receive home health care after being discharged.
• If you are at home or leaving a SNF: Speak to your doctor about your home health needs and ask for a list of Medicare-certified HHAs. You, your doctor, or a caregiver should be able to call an HHA directly and ask them to visit your home and assess your condition.
  • You should also be able to find local HHAs through your hospital discharge planning office, 1-800-MEDICARE, or the Eldercare Locator.

In either situation, the HHA should evaluate your home health needs and create a plan of care. Your doctor must certify that you qualify for Medicare’s home health benefit, sign off on the plan of care, and recertify the plan every 60 days.