Insights from the Frontlines: A Discussion with Home Health Providers During the COVID-19 Crisis

While our nation continues to fight the COVID-19 outbreak, the home health community is working aggressively to protect patients, front-line home health workers, and the communities we serve. As a community of highly skilled professionals caring for vulnerable populations with disabilities and multiple chronic conditions, home healthcare agencies are uniquely qualified to treat individuals diagnosed with COVID-19. And with more Americans becoming vulnerable to contracting COVID-19, home health represents a safe and available care setting for at-risk populations.

The Partnership recently spoke with a number of BAYADA home health providers about their experiences during this time. See their answers below:

What are your overall observations about how the COVID-19 crisis has impacted home health patients and providers?

Lynnie Heeney, Client Services Manager:

How are home health providers continuing to reach and care for patients right now?

Shawn Winner, Client Services Manager:

Erin Johnson, Occupational Therapist:

How has home health been able to provide relief to hospitals who are experiencing a rapid influx of patients?

Lynnie Heeney, Client Services Manager:

How are home health providers and other healthcare providers working together to care for patients?

Erin Johnson, Occupational Therapist:

What are some of the biggest barriers or issues you are encountering?

Cindy Orzech, Registered Nurse:

While Congress and CMS have taken significant steps to provide regulatory relief to enable expanded access to home health and ensure patient safety, more must be done to fully unleash home health in the fight against COVID-19. Send an email now asking your policymakers to optimize the use of this skilled care during the pandemic.