Remote home health in Texas?

[Nurse Beth, MSN]

Yes, home health agencies in Texas can still employ nurses to work from home, depending on the specific job duties and agency policies. It is a business-specific decision.

However, agencies must follow specific regulatory requirements and best practices to ensure compliance with Texas state laws and federal guidelines. These include:

• Telehealth and telemedicine. Many home health agencies have embraced telehealth to allow nurses to provide care remotely. Texas has supportive telehealth policies, which have been expanded in recent years, especially during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. Through telehealth platforms, nurses can perform assessments, monitor patients, and provide education.
• Documentation and record keeping. Nurses working from home must adhere to strict documentation and record-keeping protocols to ensure patient information is secure and compliant with HIPAA regulations.
• Supervision and training. Home health agencies must ensure that nurses working from home receive appropriate supervision and training. This includes regular check-ins, continuing education, and performance evaluations.
• Technology and equipment. Nurses working from home need reliable technology and secure internet connections to access patient records, communicate with patients and other healthcare professionals, and document the care provided.

Scope of practice. The tasks and responsibilities assigned to nurses working from home must fall within their scope of practice as defined by the Texas Board of Nursing.

For the most current and specific information, it's recommended to check with the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) or the Texas Board of Nursing, as regulations and policies can change.

Best wishes,

Nurse Beth