Home Health Care
Skilled nursing, physical therapy, medical care at home
Home health care is skilled medical care provided in your home by licensed professionals — nursing visits, physical therapy, wound care, medication management. It is typically ordered by a doctor after hospitalization or for managing a chronic condition. Medicare covers home health care when criteria are met, often at no cost to the patient. This is one of the most important and underutilized benefits available to seniors.
What to look for when choosing a provider
Is the agency Medicare-certified? This is required for Medicare coverage.
What is their nurse-to-patient ratio? Lower is better.
What is their response time for urgent needs and after-hours calls?
What is their star rating on Medicare's Home Health Compare tool?
Do they assign a dedicated care coordinator who knows your loved one's case?
Alive Hospice Home Health
The home health arm of Nashville's most trusted nonprofit hospice. Excellent clinical standards and seamless transition to hospice care if needed. Their integrated model means your care team stays consistent even as needs evolve.
Amedisys Home Health
One of the largest Medicare-certified home health agencies in the country, with a strong Nashville presence. Particularly good for post-surgical recovery and chronic disease management. Their telehealth monitoring program is a standout feature.
LHC Group – Nashville
Strong clinical reputation with a focus on post-acute care coordination. Their care transition program is designed to reduce hospital readmissions — an important metric that reflects the quality of their follow-through care.
Encompass Health Home Health
Part of the national Encompass Health system, with strong rehabilitation focus. If your loved one is recovering from a stroke, hip replacement, or other significant event, their PT/OT team is among the best in the region.
Vanderbilt Home Care Services
The home health arm of Vanderbilt University Medical Center. If your loved one is a Vanderbilt patient, this is the natural choice for continuity of care. Their connection to the VUMC system means seamless communication with your care team.
Centerwell Home Health
Large national provider with strong local infrastructure. Good option for families who need reliable, Medicare-certified care with broad geographic coverage across Middle Tennessee.
Saint Thomas Home Health
Part of the Ascension Saint Thomas health system. If your loved one receives care at Saint Thomas hospitals, this agency offers excellent care continuity. Strong cardiac and oncology home health programs.
Elara Caring – Nashville
Strong behavioral health integration sets Elara apart. If your loved one has both medical needs and mental health challenges — common in serious illness — their integrated approach can be particularly valuable.
Understanding the Medicare Home Health Benefit
What Medicare covers, how to qualify, and how to choose the right agency.
Read the guide