There are two forms of assistance:

1. Skilled Home Health
   • “Skilled” is defined as meeting the medical criteria as defined by the insurance company for having a medical professional treatment from a nurse, physical therapist, occupational therapist, speech therapist, bath aide, or social worker provide treatment to increase the patient’s independence due to a specific medical condition.
   • The physician must write the orders, and the orders must meet the medical criteria standards by the insurance companies (Medicare, Medicaid, Blue Cross, etc).
   • The insurance companies dictate frequency of visits and duration of care provided.
2. Private Duty/Chore Provider Home Health
   • This form of service assists with the activities of daily living (ADLs) such as bathing, dressing, grooming, cleaning, cooking, etc.
   • This form of help is the day to day services that can help a patient remain independent and in their home despite decline in physical abilities.
   • Medical insurance does NOT cover this form of care.
   • Potential coverage may come from long term care insurance purchased by the patient, the veteran affairs office if the individual is eligible, or community service organizations.

Please click here for complete home supervision details (PDF).

Other Resources

Limited Independence: As we age, or face disease, often our independence is limited. Some patients are no longer able to stay in their home. The clinical social worker can assist in transitioning to temporary or permanent housing that will meet the needs of the individual and maintain independence as long as possible with supportive services and assistance. If you or your loved one are considering transitioning into assisted living, adult foster care, or a nursing facility, we strongly recommend reviewing their credentials through their state certification, found at www.michigan.gov In the search box, type in: nursing home look up, or adult foster care look up, or assisted living look up, and follow the links to appropriate site.

Michigan Statewide Search for Nursing Homes

Lotsa Helping Hands

Basic Needs

Housing/Shelter, food, and income are also challenges of many cancer patients. Call your local United Way by dialing 2-1-1 from any landline to connect with an operator who will assist you in accessing resources in your area.

Medical Marijuana

Michigan has passed a new law allowing marijuana use for specific medical conditions. Inquiries regarding marijuana use need to be discussed with your doctor. Details and forms can be found at the Michigan Department of Community Health Website.