UAW Retiree Medical Trust promoting home health care services for members

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan has moved forward with a number of initiatives to encourage an increase in home health care services for UAW Retiree Medical Trust commercial members. The primary purpose of this initiative is, ultimately, to decrease the likelihood of members being readmitted to hospitals.

We’re asking that facilities and providers assist us in referring our members to home health care for complex conditions or following a hospital stay. URMBT members can receive home care services without meeting “homebound” criteria. This differs from the Medicare guideline that requires homebound status.

Although each member has unique needs, there are a number of well-documented reasons why home care services could reduce hospital readmissions:

1. Home care assists in ensuring that the member or caregiver understands and complies with the member’s discharge plan.
2. Home care performs thorough, hands-on medication reconciliation.
3. Home care can identify and address potential barriers that may exist in the home setting.
4. Home care is “the bridge” between the facility discharge and the primary care physician follow-up.
5. Home care provides added support to the member or caregiver.
6. Home care provides insight into the home environment and can thoroughly assess the biopsychosocial situation.

If you have questions or need more information please contact Michele Ohneck, director of Medical Management URMBT, at 313-448-8465.