from Medical news Today:Thanks to home medical equipment providers, millions of seniors andpeople with disabilities will share Thanksgiving and other holidays inthe comfort of their homes. During November, which is National HomecareMonth, the American Association for Homecare celebrates the thousandsof dedicated professionals who provide cost-effective andconsumer-preferred homecare.
Five Facts about Homecare1) Among the eight million Americans who depend on homecare formedically required services or equipment are people with chronicobstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), multiple sclerosis, Lou Gehrig'sdisease, spinal cord injuries, congestive heart failure, diabetes, andother conditions. 2) Virtually every type of healthcare short of surgery can be performedin the home. Today Americans benefit from oxygen therapy, wheelchairs,skilled nursing, sleep therapy, infusion therapy, diabetes supplies,hospice, and other medical services, supplies, and equipment at home. 3) The home is the most cost-effective setting for medical care.Home-based care is a key part of the solution to the severe fiscalchallenges facing Medicare and Medicaid and should be an essential partof healthcare reform discussions for federal and state policymakers. 4) Advances in technology for home medical equipment and telemedicine are expanding the clinical effectiveness of homecare. 5) In the event of a pandemic flu, homecare will play a large role in treating the millions of Americans who will require care. For consumer information and links about homecare, visit www.aahomecare.org/athome.
