The Right to Home Care

If you are caring for a loved one with a long-term illness such as dementia or cancer, it is not uncommon for healthcare providers to make suggestions that you or your loved one disagree with or simply can't afford. Here's a few suggestions for asserting your loved one's right to have home care:

• You can say no if hospital discharge planners want to send your loved one home and you feel you are not prepared to provide the necessary care at home. Be flexible but firm as you negotiate a feasible plan.
• Request an aide or home care nurse to come to the hospital and help you bring your loved one home, including riding in the ambulance, setting up the bed and other medical equipment.
• Make sure your loved one has the proper transportation to and from outpatient visits.
• Ask for a re-evaluation of the situation at a specified time (a few weeks or months).

 

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