Glossary of Home Health Terminology

CarePartners presents this glossary to help patients, caregivers and other site visitors become familiar with words that are commonly used in the field of health care. Our Educational Resources section provides additional information on a variety of health care topics.

Caregiver: The person—often a family member or close personal friend—who lives in the home and oversees the majority of the patient’s needs.

Durable Medical Equipment: Medical equipment used by patients to facilitate a safe, healing home environment. Examples include canes, crutches, walkers, wheelchairs, hospital beds and oxygen tanks. The equipment is ordered by the physician and can be rented or purchased.

Home Health Aide: A trained professional who provides medical-related services and personal care such as taking vital signs and bathing/dressing a client, under the supervision of a registered nurse.

Medicare: The federal health insurance program for people age 65 and older and for individuals with disabilities.

Occupational Therapist: A licensed health care professional who assesses functioning in activities of daily living that are essential for independence. These activities include dressing, bathing, meal preparation, writing and others.

Physical Therapist: A licensed health care professional who uses exercises and other methods to restore or maintain a patient's strength, mobility and physical function.

Private Pay: When payment for services will come directly from the patient, instead of Medicare or another health insurance plan.

Registered Nurse (RN): A nurse licensed by the state of Ohio to provide medical care.

Speech Therapist: A licensed health care professional who evaluates and treats patients with communication and swallowing problems.