UPDATED SEPTEMBER 2026
Cornerstone guide · ElderCareCosts Research
Home Care vs Home Health: What’s the Difference?
Home health is skilled (nursing/therapy) and typically requires a physician plan of care under Medicare rules.
Not medical advice. This page compares cost and logistics. It does not diagnose, treat, or recommend clinical care; talk with a clinician about health decisions.
The basics
Home care / personal care is often non-medical help with daily living. Usually private pay, or Medicaid HCBS when a state program is available.
Families often need both at different stages.
Sources
- Medicare.gov. Home health services. Definition of Medicare home health; skilled nursing and therapy under a physician plan of care
- Medicaid.gov. LTSS. Medicaid HCBS / LTSS framing for non-medical home care when state programs apply
Related
Not sure which of these apply to your family?
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