Trella Health’s Industry Trend Report, analyzes Medicare data across various healthcare sectors, including home health care services. One notable insight: more than 1 in 4 patients across the U.S. refuse home health care services when recommended at hospital discharge. While this number is concerning, there’s good news—the percentage of patients refusing home health care dropped from 40% in 2019 to 28% in 2020.
For residents in Mesquite, TX, and the greater Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) region, understanding the benefits of home health care can help ensure better recovery outcomes.
What Happens When Patients Refuse Home Health Care
Patients who decline home health care services after a hospital stay often face worse health outcomes and higher medical expenses. Studies show that these patients:
- Incur an average of $15,233 more in healthcare costs within a year compared to those who accept home health services.
- Experience double the rate of hospital readmissions.
- Face 25% higher mortality rates.
These adverse outcomes occur despite the fact that those who decline home health care tend to be younger, healthier, and better educated than those who accept it.
Is Cost a Concern for Medicare Patients?
For many Americans, healthcare costs can be a barrier. However, for patients with original Medicare, cost should not deter acceptance of home health care services. Medicare pays 100% of the cost for qualified home health care, with no deductibles, copays, or cost-sharing.
Furthermore, home health care saves money over time by reducing the need for costly emergency care, hospital readmissions, and other medical interventions. This makes home health care both a cost-effective and beneficial choice for eligible patients.
Why Do Patients Refuse Home Health Care Services?
Despite the clear benefits, many patients still refuse home health care. According to a roundtable study published by the Alliance for Home Health Quality Innovation, the most common reasons involve misunderstanding the value of skilled care.
Patients who are younger, less ill, or more independent often believe they can manage their recovery on their own. This includes tasks like wound care, health monitoring, or exercise therapy. Unfortunately, these assumptions can lead to complications and worse outcomes, as untrained individuals may underestimate the importance of professional support.
The Importance of Home Health Care Services in Mesquite, TX
For patients in Mesquite, TX, and the greater DFW area, home health care services offer skilled nursing and therapy tailored to individual needs—all in the comfort of home. These services are critical for recovery after surgery, managing chronic conditions, and preventing hospital readmissions.
When a physician or hospital recommends home health care, it’s important to take that recommendation seriously. Declining services can lead to unnecessary risks and higher costs in the long run.
Angel Home Health Care Services: Compassionate Care in Mesquite, TX
At Angel Home Health, we provide Medicare-certified home health care services to patients throughout Mesquite and the DFW region. Our skilled team of nurses and therapists is dedicated to improving your health and independence—all with Medicare covering 100% of the cost for eligible patients.
If you or a loved one has been offered home health care services, contact Angel Home Health today to learn more about how we can support your recovery journey.
Sources
- Xiao R, Miller J, Zafirau W, et al. Impact of home health care on health care resource utilization following hospital discharge: a cohort study. The American Journal of Medicine. 2018; 131 (4): 395-407.
- Topaz M, Kang Y, Holland D, et al. Higher 30-day and 60-day readmission among patients who refuse post-acute care services. American Journal of Managed Care. 2015; 21 (5): 414-433.
- Levine C, Lee T. “I can take care of myself!” Patients’ refusals of Home Health Care Services. A report from a Roundtable Sponsored by United Hospital Fund and the Alliance for Home Health Quality Innovation. 2017 May; ii–19.