CARE NEEDS ASSESSMENTS Do you know what resources are available?
As we age, the need for more comprehensive healthcare increases. Therefore, the likelihood of accessing additional resources to maintain independence, safety, quality of life, and overall health is something most people and families will experience. With an ever-changing landscape of options and requirements, it can be difficult for individuals to keep up with what is available—and honestly, it can be a challenge for healthcare professionals to be 100% in the know about all the resources potentially available. This is one of the significant challenges that the healthcare field faces. Closing the gaps in services and needs, as well as in communication between providers, is something that all healthcare workers strive for. That is why Mankato Clinic has collaborated with Adara Home Health to offer a complimentary Care Needs Assessment. Most home health agencies do offer complimentary assessments, however, Adara Home Health and Mankato Clinic have taken this a step further to guarantee that all members of the care team are updated, as well as providing resources outside the scope of home health that may benefit the patient. The shared goal is to provide high-quality health care by focusing on continuity of care. Continuity is achieved through helping patients to identify ways in which they could benefit from the services that are available and connecting them to those resources. Any provider at Mankato Clinic can request a Care Needs Assessment. Most often this is done when a patient has had a decline in health or functioning, when a new diagnosis occurs or when the patient, family member or provider have concerns about safety. Adara Home Health will schedule a time to meet with the patient and their family to get to know them and their unique situation. A nurse will complete the visit and first look for any home health needs. Adara is a Medicare-certified agency and Medicare does cover services in
18
SUMMER 2022 | MANKATO CLINIC THRIVES
full when qualified. These needs potentially could include skilled nursing, physical therapy, occupational therapy, and/ or speech therapy. If Medicare is not the primary payer or if the patient does not qualify for Medicare coverage, the nurse will look at other payment options, such as Medicaid, waivered services, and Veterans’ benefits. Additionally, if no home-health needs are found, the nurse will assess to identify other resources that may help the patient retain independence and safety. The Adara clinician will collaborate with others to provide expert services, whether that be meeting nutrition needs, overcoming transportation barriers, identifying out-patient services, or connecting to private pay home care. After the assessment is complete, the clinician will report back to the patient’s primary physician with the outcome. Closing gaps in communication and working together to identify service options is the best way to help those in our community maintain optimal health and wellness. If you are interested in receiving a complimentary care needs assessment, discuss this with your provider at your next appointment. ■
KELLY SIMMONS
ADARA HOME HEALTH
To learn more, visit adarahomehealth.com
