Jordan Kunkel, clinical supervisor at Healing Hands Healthcare, has been recognized as a 2023 Future Leader by Home Health Care News. In an interview, Kunkel shares his perspective on the home health industry, the importance of resources for patients, and the potential impact of payment cuts on care delivery.
Kunkel’s passion for caring for others drew him to the industry. He recognizes the need for a “big heart” to ensure patients are well taken care of. Reflecting on his experience, he emphasizes that every situation, whether good or bad, is an opportunity for growth and learning.
One change Kunkel would like to see in the industry is the availability of resources for patients. He highlights the challenges faced by patients whose insurance does not cover necessary supplies or 24-hour caregivers. To improve the situation, Kunkel believes it is crucial to have more readily accessible resources for patients in need.
Looking ahead to 2024 and beyond, Kunkel predicts an increased demand for home health services. He mentions the hospital-at-home program implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic as evidence of the benefits of receiving care in the comfort of one’s own home. However, he cautions that potential Medicare cuts to home health payments could hinder patients from receiving appropriate care due to staffing challenges.
Kunkel describes the future of home health as “growing.” He acknowledges that mistakes are part of the learning process and advises his younger self to have confidence and learn from those mistakes. He believes that by learning and growing from mistakes, one can become a better leader for their team and provide better care for patients.
The Future Leaders program, in partnership with Homecare Homebase, aims to recognize emerging professionals shaping the future of various healthcare sectors. To learn more about this program, visit the specified website.
Sources: Home Health Care News
