Transfer Training at Home

Transfer Training at Home: an individual home care plan

Moving between surfaces requires a plan for both the patient and the helper. Transfer training considers the starting position, destination, equipment and clinical restrictions for the specific movement being assessed.

Surface-to-surface assessment

Transfer training starts by naming the movement and the surfaces involved. The therapist reviews current restrictions, relevant strength and control, equipment and the space available. Standing is not assumed appropriate for every transfer, and one surface-to-surface method should not be treated as suitable for all household situations.

Transfer setup and sequencing

The helper is part of the assessment. There must be enough room to participate, and the required assistance must be within their capabilities. Where a task requires different equipment or more help, the plan needs a practical arrangement rather than an instruction to lift harder. Equipment use requires its own assessment and training.

Equipment considerations

OT and PT may both address transfers within their ordered plans, so relevant precautions and methods need coordination. The household should know which instructions apply to which task. If the patient's ability changes, continuing the old method without review can overlook a new need. A referral is most useful when it describes the actual starting surface, destination and current assistance.

Related care for transfer training at home

Toileting Training at Home. Toilet Transfer Training at Home.

Eligibility and insurance review

Original Medicare Part A & B may cover eligible home health care when the applicable homebound, skilled-care, clinician-order and certification requirements are met and services follow an individual plan through a Medicare-certified agency. Coverage and any patient responsibility require verification. Blue Shield of California PPO and Anthem Blue Cross PPO benefits are also reviewed individually. Equipment, medications and separately billed services require their own benefit review.

To discuss transfer training at home in Los Angeles County, contact HarvardCare Home Health with the current clinical instructions and the tasks that need support. Referring clinicians can use the patient referral page. Assessment, service availability and individual eligibility determine the next steps.