Chapter 40 – The Role of the Physical Therapist in Home Health

Home health physical therapy involves a licensed therapist coming to a patient’s home to provide individualized treatment plans typically involving the gross movements of the musculoskeletal system. This specialized service is designed for patients with acute conditions or limited mobility, and is covered by most insurance plans. Home health physical therapy focuses on improving a patient’s strength and mobility. It can also help a patient who is recovering from an illness or injury.

Most patients receiving home health physical therapy are referred by a health care provider. The health care provider can vouch for the medical necessity of home-care physical therapy, as outlined in the patient’s medical necessity report. In this case, the health care provider will likely state that the patient cannot leave the home due to his or her condition. However, patients with mobility issues may also choose to use an outpatient physical therapy clinic to receive PT at home, although it may conflict with the home health agency they are currently using at the time. In such cases where the patient decides to keep their current home health agency, the physical therapist will provide exercises for the patient to do at home.

Unlike a traditional PT, a PT in home health physical therapy has more flexibility in their schedule than in traditional settings. Often, they are allowed to visit the store and post office in between patients. However, in some cases, they are required to cover another therapist’s patient or to adjust their schedule for the day. They also must manage the area and patient load, which may be more demanding than a traditional job.

As a PT in home health, they will be responsible for assessing a patient’s care needs and evaluating their level of function. They will also develop a treatment plan and advise the patient’s family regarding their condition. The occupational requirements for a PT in home health physical therapy vary depending on the state you live in.

Physical therapists typically provide paperwork handouts to patients and their families of the prescribed exercises they can do at home. It is up to the therapists and nurses to make sure they follow through on doing their exercises at home so the patients and their family become more independent.

A PT in home health care works closely with patients who are recovering from an illness or injury. They are a problem solver and focus on restoring patients’ functional movement. Therapists strive to help patients avoid prescription pain medications or surgery and focus on improving their quality of life. A PT is also sensitive to the emotional aspects of recovery.