Private Duty vs. Home Health: What Families Need to Know

Two services, one goal—safer independence

Private duty (non-medical) helps with daily living—bathing, dressing, meals, light housekeeping, companionship, transportation. Home health (medical) provides nursing or therapy under clinical orders.

How they work together

A nurse may manage wound care while a caregiver handles meal prep, hydration, and fall-prevention routines. This coordination helps clients recover faster and stay safer at home.

When to choose which

If you need help with daily routines or ongoing support, private duty is flexible and schedule-friendly. If you need skilled nursing or therapy ordered by a clinician, ask about home health—and keep private duty in place for day-to-day help.

Takeaway

The strongest plans often blend both services to cover medical needs and everyday support.