Are you considering a career in home health? Do you feel a bit skeptical based on what you currently know – or think you know?
You’re not alone. Many aspiring health care professionals have questions or concerns about what this specific career path truly entails. No worries – we’re here to help.
We’re going to debunk three common myths about home health and equip you with tools and knowledge that will help you understand what it means to be a home health professional. It’s a career that promotes professional growth and offers immense personal fulfillment, a tremendous sense of accomplishment, and memories that will last a lifetime.
“Home health is one of the most gratifying sectors of health care. The countless times we hear ‘thank-you’ and the smiles we receive are a testament to the profound impact we have on the lives of others.” - Jennifer Nuckols, LHC Group Division President
Let’s dive in and explore three misconceptions about home health – and the facts that debunk them.
Myth 1: You’ll be on your own
This one is far from the truth. The reality is that you have the backing and full support of a dedicated care team, including your patient's physicians and your own therapy team members. It’s a genuinely collaborative environment where everyone is committed to the same goal – providing the best care possible. Weekly case management meetings with your team provide an opportunity to ask questions and share insights into your role. With a caring and supportive team by your side every step of the way, you will not feel alone.
“Home health provides so many opportunities to hone nursing skills through collaborating with experienced peers and using critical thinking to solve complex problems that may be encountered in home care settings. The enhanced opportunities to individualize care and strengthen rapport with patients and families are motivating factors for skilled clinicians looking to expand their impact.” -Christa Mcabee, Executive Director
Myth 2: You spend all day traveling
While travel is a part of the job, you have the autonomy to schedule patient visits around your own timetable, allowing you to effectively balance your responsibilities. The flexibility enables you to plan your day in a way that works best for you. At LHC Group, you receive all the support you need in your role, ensuring you can focus on delivering excellent patient care without feeling overwhelmed by travel demands.
“With a wide variety of shifts and days to choose from, home health offers the flexibility that allows you to enjoy both your job and your life outside of work. We blend a work-life balance so clinicians can choose a shift that best meets both their needs and those of their patients.” -Jennifer Nuckols, LHC Group Division President
Myth 3: Home health requires excessive documentation
LHC Group is committed to making the documentation process even easier! And with so many new technologies available, we’re making tremendous advances in that direction. Our focus is on eliminating inefficiencies by reducing time spent on paperwork and allowing more time for patient care. For example, the introduction of voice-to-text options has significantly improved the efficiency of the documentation process. By saving time through online documentation, we not only enhance patient satisfaction, but also promote a better work-life balance for our team members.
“Opportunities to use advanced technology and tools continue to expand as home health evolves to meet the growing need to treat patients outside of institutional settings. The changing face of home health has truly expanded horizons for nurses looking to grow as professionals in less traditional settings.” - Christa Mcabee, Executive Director
LHC Group is here to help you find a career home – one that’s built on care, belonging, and trust. If you’re interested in starting your home health care journey, visit us and learn more at careers.lhcgroup.com.
“In home health, the biggest win for clinicians is the ability to build relationships with patients and be an integral part of their recovery journey.” -Jennifer Nuckols, LHC Group Division President
