Access to home health care: Negotiating with the gatekeepers

Abstract

This article focuses on the increasing need to assist the client to access the home health care system. The "gatekeepers," or those controlling the referrals, are varied and growing in number. The need to educate has never been as critical as it is in the current health care environment. This article presents the steps necessary to negotiate for services on behalf of the client. This is necessary reading for all clinicians, discharge planners, home care intake coordinators, home health care managers, and other gatekeepers.