Date of Paper/Work

5-2013

Type of Paper/Work

Doctor of Nursing Practice Project

Degree Name

Doctor of Nursing Practice

Department

Nursing

First Advisor

Rozina Bhimani

Department/School

Doctor of Nursing Practice

Abstract

Currently in the state of Minnesota, low income individuals have health care costs covered or supplemented through a variety of programs. The 2010 fiscal year-end report to the Minnesota legislature demonstrated that the federal government contributed 4.43 billion dollars to Minnesota Medical Assistance and the state government contributed nearly 2.8 billion dollars. Of this amount only 7% was devoted to providing home care services. This article reviews the economics and outcomes of state and federally funded home health services programs. It identifies how a small increase in the amount provided for home care could significantly decrease the overall cost of healthcare while improving prevention rather than treatment services, a goal of healthcare reform. Although this article is based on the experience of one home health agency in the state of Minnesota, barriers are identified that can change the reimbursement system which is relevant to every state.

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