MEDICARE HOME HEALTH GUIDE
Medicare Home Health in Northern Virginia: Coverage & Eligibility
If you or a loved one needs skilled care at home, Medicare home health may cover it for eligible patients. Here's a plain-language guide to what's covered, who qualifies, and how to get started with VIGEO Health, a CHAP-accredited agency serving Northern Virginia.
AT A GLANCE
Could Medicare home health fit this situation?
Medicare or your plan makes the coverage decision. These are common starting requirements.
WHAT MAY BE INCLUDED
Skilled services delivered at home
When ordered by a doctor or other allowed provider and Medicare requirements are met, covered home health services may include:
- Skilled nursing — wound care, medication management, and clinical monitoring.
- Physical, occupational & speech therapy — to rebuild strength, function, and communication.
- Medical social work — help navigating resources and care coordination.
- Home health aide services — part-time or intermittent personal care support only while the person is also receiving a qualifying skilled service.
IMPORTANT BOUNDARIES
What Medicare home health does not cover
Medicare does not cover 24-hour-a-day care at home, home-delivered meals, homemaker services unrelated to the plan of care, or personal care when it is the only care needed.
If the main need is companionship or everyday routine support, Companion Care may be a different starting point and is generally private pay.
WHAT HAPPENS NEXT
From care question to coverage review
- 1Talk with the ordering provider
Ask whether skilled home health may be appropriate. You can also contact VIGEO with basic questions.
- 2The provider sends the referral
A doctor or other allowed provider orders the care and reviews the plan of care.
- 3VIGEO reviews the starting requirements
We review the referral, service area, and availability. Medicare or your plan determines coverage.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Medicare Home Health FAQs
Is home health covered by Medicare?
Medicare Part A and Part B may cover eligible home health services when requirements are met. A doctor or other allowed provider must order the care, and Medicare eligibility and coverage rules apply. VIGEO can help explain the referral process, but Medicare or your plan determines coverage.
What does "homebound" mean?
It generally means leaving home requires considerable effort and isn't recommended due to your condition, or you need help (a cane, walker, or another person) to leave home. Occasional short outings and medical visits are still allowed.
What services does Medicare cover?
Covered services can include skilled nursing, physical/occupational/speech therapy, and medical social work. Part-time or intermittent home health aide care is covered only while the person is also receiving a qualifying skilled service.
How do I get a referral in Northern Virginia?
Ask your doctor or other allowed provider about a referral to VIGEO Health, or have your provider submit one through our provider referral form. Call (703) 244-6884 with questions.
Questions About Medicare Home Health?
Talk to your doctor or other allowed provider about VIGEO, or reach our team directly.