Patient & Family Education

Often times, home health services are ordered by a physician as a patient is being discharged from the hospital and/or nursing home. Our nurses, social workers and intake team work closely with the patients physician and caregivers to seamlessly set up home care services for patients prior to their leaving the hospital. For many patients dealing with chronic conditions such as COPD and heart failure, home health services can greatly reduce repeated hospitalizations and readmissions.

Most patients receive an initial home health visit by a nurse or therapist within 48 hours of discharge from the hospital.

We have two caregiver support groups for those currently caring for a loved one. Learn about resources, ways to balance your life, and get support from others going through the same journey.

Caregiver Virtual Support Groups

For those currently caring for a loved one.

Caregiver Support Group Wednesday Virtual Meetings

2nd and 4th Wednesdays of each month
11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Contact: Margaret Kenerly, MWHC Home Health, 540.741.1864.

3rd Wednesday of each month
3:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Contact: Julie Burks, MWHC Home Health, 540.419.2527.

Please call appropriate contact for more information and to register.

Click here to download a printable flyer.

Numerous patients are in danger of tripping or falling at home. Check out ways to make your home safer by speaking with your healthcare provider.

Ask your health care provider the following questions to make your home safer:

• Will any of my medicines make me lightheaded, sleepy, or dizzy?
• What exercises will help me decrease my chance of falling?
• What changes can I make to my bathroom in order to make it safer?
• What changes should I make to my bed/bedroom?
• Is there any way to make stairs safer?
• Would help with chores at home be a good choice for me?
• Would it be beneficial to use either a cane or a walker?
• What do I do if I fall?

There is no cure for COPD, but there are things you can do every day to keep COPD from getting worse, to protect your lungs, and to stay healthy.

Speak to your doctor about the following to successfully manage your COPD:

• Learn how to manage your days and give yourself time for activities
• Quit smoking and improve your air quality
• Eat small healthy meals throughout the day
• Build up your exercise routine under the supervision of your doctor
• Speak with your doctor about a healthy sleep routine

When the heart is unable to pump enough blood to the body’s tissues, heart failure is a possible condition. Heart failure may develop suddenly, or over time, depending on the cause.

Learn more about Heart Health here!

When you receive your prescription, always:

• Check the label: Look for your name, the name of the medicine, the dose, and how often you should take it. If something looks unfamiliar, call your health care provider.
• Look at the medicine: Make sure it looks the same as what you've been taking. If it doesn't, call the pharmacist or your health care provider
• Take and store medicines safely: When taking medicines at home, store them properly, and keep them organized and out of the reach of children.

Records, Documents, and Living Wills

A living will informs family members or loved ones what your wishes are if you become terminally ill or injured and are on life-sustaining measures.

Learn more about your living will by clicking here