Across Colorado, home health care providers are offering care to thousands of seniors, many of whom are living with chronic conditions. The state’s home health sector also generates jobs, which help to support the state’s overall economy.
The Medicare home health benefit covers skilled nursing care and therapy services provided to patients in their own residence. The patient must be under the care of a physician-approved place of care, meet the definition of “homebound,” and be in need of skilled services on an intermittent basis. Patients often receive home health care following an acute care hospital discharge or because they require certain rehabilitation services. Services include care from highly skilled nurses, physical therapists, occupational therapists, speech-language pathologists, and medical social workers. Home health aides provide personal care services for patients if needed to support skilled nursing services.
As Colorado’s senior population grows, home health is poised to provide these needed health care services to the state’s seniors.
Key Facts about Home Health in Colorado
27,097
Number of Home Health Beneficiaries
25,216
Number of Home Health Employees
38,417
Number of Jobs Created by Home Health
$1,208,754,476
Home Health Total Wages
$1,963,017,216
Total Impact on State Labor Income
83.57%
Percentage of Home Health Users with 3+ Chronic Conditions
9.8%
Discharge Rate to Home Health from Inpatient Hospital Stay