November is National Home Care Month

For more than 55 years, Mitchell County Public Health & Home Health has provided compassionate, quality home health services to area residents. Home health care allows individuals to receive skilled medical care and assistance with daily activities while remaining in the comfort and familiarity of their own homes.  Home health services can benefit individuals recovering from surgery or hospitalization, managing chronic health conditions, experiencing frequent falls, having difficulty managing medications, or needing additional assistance to remain independent.

Mitchell County Public Health & Home Health offers a variety of services, including but not limited to:

• Skilled Nursing: Wound care, medication management, disease education, and monitoring of health conditions.
• Physical Therapy: Helping patients improve strength, balance, mobility, and safety.
• Occupational Therapy: Assisting individuals in safely performing everyday activities and maintaining independence.
• Home Health Aide Services: Providing assistance with personal care and daily living needs.
• Homemaker Services: Helping with household tasks to support individuals living safely at home.

Recognized for Quality Care

Mitchell County Public Health & Home Health is also proud to have earned a 5-star patient satisfaction rating and a 4.5-star quality of patient care rating through Medicare's Home Health rating system.

The 5-star patient satisfaction rating is the highest possible rating and is based on feedback from patients about their experiences receiving home health care. These ratings reflect the agency's ongoing commitment to providing compassionate, high-quality services and positive patient experiences.  This recognition is especially meaningful during National Home Care Month, as it highlights the dedication of the nurses, therapists, home health aides, and support staff who provide care to patients throughout Mitchell County.

Helping Individuals Remain Independent at Home

One common misconception is that home health care is only for individuals who are bedridden or recently discharged from the hospital. In reality, home health services can benefit individuals with a wide range of health concerns and changing care needs.  Recognizing when additional support may be needed can help individuals and families explore options before health or safety concerns become more serious.  Mitchell County Public Health & Home Health offers free initial in-home assessments, with no obligation to begin services. These assessments help individuals and families better understand their needs, available services, and potential options for care.

Community Meet & Greets Planned for November

In celebration of National Home Care Month, Mitchell County Public Health & Home Health will be hosting Community Meet & Greets at local libraries throughout November. These events provide an opportunity for community members to meet the Home Health team, learn more about available services, ask questions, and discover how home health care can support themselves or a loved one.

The following events are scheduled:

• Tuesday, November 17: Nissen Library, St. Ansgar — 2:30–4:30 PM
• Wednesday, November 18: Osage Library, Osage — 3:00–5:00 PM
• Thursday, November 19: Riceville Library, Riceville — 11:00 AM–1:00 PM
• Tuesday, November 24: Stacyville Library, Stacyville — 1:00–3:00 PM

Community members are encouraged to stop by, visit with staff, and learn more about the resources available to help individuals remain safely and independently at home.  During National Home Care Month, Mitchell County Public Health & Home Health encourages everyone to recognize the value of home health care and the difference it makes for patients, families, and the community.

For more information about home health services or to schedule a free in-home assessment, contact Mitchell County Public Health & Home Health at 641-832-3500 or visit www.mcpublichealth.com.

Posted November 2, 2026