New to HH, Recert... Not feeling right, input needed.

[OnTheRoad]

I got a job with a HH agency and have had exactly 1 patient whom I have been seeing for 8 wks. I was supposed to discharge the patient tomorrow because patient really isn't homebound ( functions quite well and brings self to the mall and is hoping she can find some elderly employment to take up her days, as well as being able to drive to appointments, grocery shopping, etc). A week ago patient had an outpatient procedure to have a toenail removed and the office wants me to recert tomorrow for that reason. It is true that her toe could become infected, patient is complying with doctors orders concerning wound care. Is this really a reason to recert? As my training consisted of 2 15 minute assessments ( I have always spent my entire hour with my patient), I was ready to put an end to this professional relationship after closing this case. I am wondering if I should now run and also refuse to do the recert???

Any help from you experienced HH RN's appreciated!

[caliotter3]

I tnink your supervisor is asking you to stretch it a bit.

[berube]

If your patient is medicare she must meet the homebound criteria to be eligible for HH services. some private insurances are different.

[OnTheRoad]

Thank you both for replying.

[Isabelle49]

The Medicare Fraud Strike Force is not only looking at corporations, they are also investigating nurses. Don't do anything that you don't think is right, cause your signature will be on the documents.

[RN1263]

This patient is NOT homebound and that's reason enough not to recertify.

[berube]

yep medicare says first they need to be homebound second is they have a skill,,,time to d/c this patient