What should I expect during a Home Care visit?

Once your doctor refers you for home health services, the home health agency will schedule an appointment and come to your home to talk to you about your needs and ask you some questions about your health. Written orders from your doctor are needed to start services.
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Based on the initial visit and assessment by the agency, a plan of care is developed collaboratively with you, your family, and your doctor. The home care agency will keep your doctor updated about your progress and any changes in your health. It is important that home health staff see you as often as your doctor orders.

Depending on your needs, you will have different members of the home care team come to your home. These may include a nurse, therapist, or medical social worker. Most often, these team members visit the home at different times and/or days.

Examples of a Home Health Visit

These are some examples of what might be included in your home health visit.

  • Check what you are eating and drinking
  • Check your weight, blood pressure, temperature, heart rate, and breathing
  • Check that you are taking your medications and any treatments correctly
  • Ask if you are having pain
  • Check your safety in the home
  • Teach you about your care so you can take care of yourself
  • Coordinate your care by regularly communicating with you, your doctor, your support person, and anyone else who provides care to you
  • Meet with the person you identify as your support person if needed
  • Review your emergency plan indicating when to call your nurse or to call 911

Things to Remember

When a person receives care at home, it’s essential that the home health staff provide you with the necessary care while maintaining respect for your privacy and your home. Staff are a guest in your home, and are limited in what they can and cannot do. If you, or a family member, has questions about what o expect, don’t be afraid to ask. Communication is key to your care. During your first visit, you will also receive a copy of the Home Care Bill of Rights, this outlines what your rights and responsibilities are regarding your care.

Use the Find a Home Care Agency search function on the right side of this page for information on the agencies that deliver different types of home care in New Hampshire’s communities.