Home Health Aides refers to professionally trained individuals who assist patients with their personal hygiene, medication needs and related issues. Generally, home health aides work in nursing homes or other long-term care facilities such as retirement communities. The majority of these individuals are employed directly by a long-term care facility or nursing home. However, there are also independent workers who work for home health aides who have chosen to work independently.
To become a home health aide, an individual must undergo a background check and drug test to ensure they are clean and drug free. Most individuals who want to become a personal care aide will require a 24 hour home care aide insurance plan. Some insurance companies will cover the cost of this insurance if the aide completes the required training courses. However, there are some insurance companies who do not provide this coverage.
There are a variety of work settings that allow for home aide employment.
- In a skilled care setting, the aide provides routine assistance to a patient who is receiving medical care.
- The aide may assist the patient in the bathroom, change clothes and even help the patient eat during the period of stay at the care facility.
- Many times, these individuals are under the supervision of a registered nurse.
In a custodial setting, the home health aide is generally responsible for maintaining the cleanliness of the patient’s residence. This may include keeping the bedding and clothing in the same condition that they were previously in. Sometimes, this individual is also asked to assist the resident in transporting themselves to and from the restroom. It is not uncommon for an aide to assist in bathing a patient or assisting them in toileting. Again, if the employer does not cover the cost of this insurance policy, an independent worker will be needed to step up this responsibility.
On the other hand, the term home health aides do not always refer to nursing home aides, but rather those individuals who work in a doctor’s office or in the dental office. Generally, these aides are not licensed to administer medications, but they are capable of providing personal care to those who visit these medical facilities on a daily basis. Regardless, of the position that these individuals hold, most states require that any home health aide is certified through one of many national certification boards.
The choice between a work at home health aide and a full-time nursing or medical job can be difficult for the applicant. However, in most instances, it is an easy transition for most applicants. Most people are happy to know that there is a good chance of a good future in either position. For those who have not considered a home health aide job, it is time that you consider the benefits that could be entailed. This may be the perfect career choice for you.
