What “homebound” means for Medicare home health
For Medicare home health, “homebound” means leaving home takes a lot of effort, so you usually stay home. You can still leave for medical care, religious services, and short trips.
The two parts of the rule
Medicare looks at two things. Both must be true.
- You need help to leave home. You might need a cane, walker, or wheelchair. You might need a special ride or another person to help you. Or your doctor says leaving home could make you sicker.
- Leaving home is hard for you. It takes a lot of effort, so you normally do not leave.
Your doctor decides if you are homebound. They write it in your medical record.
What you can still do
Homebound does not mean you can never leave. You can still go out for:
- Doctor visits and medical treatment
- Religious services
- Adult day care
- Short, rare trips, like a haircut, a walk around the block, or a drive
- Special events, like a funeral, a graduation, or a family gathering
Homebound is not the same as stuck in bed
You can walk around your home. You can sit outside. You can have visitors.
Some agencies tell patients they cannot leave at all. That is not the Medicare rule.
When to ask first
Going out often, like to work or to run errands most days, may mean you are not homebound. If you are not sure, ask your doctor or care team before you change your routine.
If you are told you are not homebound
- Ask why, and ask what changed.
- Talk with your doctor. Your doctor decides, based on your health.
- If you are no longer homebound, ask about outpatient therapy or other care.
If you have a Medicare Advantage plan
Medicare Advantage plans also cover home health. They may have extra steps, like approving care before it starts. Call your plan, or call us and we will check.
Related pages
Questions? Call us.
We can answer questions about home health, Medicare, and your insurance, before or during care.
General information, not medical advice. Follow your care team’s instructions.