Take time to recognize health care providers
Print- •
-
Share
- Share this item
-
Grab the link
Copy and paste the link:
- Blog about it
- Close
- •
-
Post a Comment
- •
Favorite- •
In today's health care climate, much of the debate rages over universal coverage, the ability to choose doctors and what procedures will be paid for by whatever system is set up later.
As politics play out and the non-stop television cycle gives voice to the extremes, it is important that we remember that every day there are dedicated, hard-working professionals taking care of Americans now.
November is National Home Care and Hospice Month.
Please join me in taking the time to celebrate all the great nurses, physical therapists, nurse aides, paraprofessionals, occupational therapists, respiratory therapists, physicians and paid and unpaid caregivers who make it possible for millions of Americans to receive vital health care and service where it is most wanted - in the home.
As the debates go on, the reality is that America is changing rapidly.
According to the National Association of Home Care & Hospice, more than 11 million Americans receive home-delivered health care from home-care providers.
The U.S. Census Bureau's 2008 projections estimate that the senior citizen population will grow faster than all other groups in all states by 2050.
Also, as America has turned more urban, home care and hospice companies often become the best avenue for health care services in rapidly-aging rural areas.
These dedicated professionals are hitting the roads to care for our parents in the homes where we were raised.
And it is not just medical services available to Americans through home care and hospice services, it is important to remember that non-medical care is also available through personal assistance services.
These companies provide for the daily-living activities for patients to remain independent in a place of their choosing, and thus avoiding traumatic relocation.
To the approximately 10 percent of the population in the United States over the age of 65, the benefits of at-home care would extend beyond comfort and convenience.
More than just providing excellent care where and when patients need and want it, home care, hospice and personal assistance service saves the United States and commercial health insurers billions of health care dollars each year.
There is no more cost-effective provider of health care in the country.
In honor of National Home Care and Hospice Month, and to give back to the communities we serve, Caring Senior Service is donating hours of service to hospice companies across the nation to help their patients.
Jeff Salter is CEO and Founder of Caring Senior Service, a home care company based in San Antonio, Texas, serving residents in nine states since 1991. Caring Senior Service operates an office in Victoria.
