Home care agencies provide services that range from home support such as cleaning, cooking and running errands to help with transportation to MD appointments and more.
To receive quality assistance, it's important to know what questions to ask so that you hire the home care agency that's right for you.
To help you sort through your options, ask questions to help you evaluate the services. There are several facets to home care, and asking the right questions up front can help you choose the best agency for your needs.
Agency qualifications
How long has the agency been in business?
Is the agency licensed by the state? Most states but not all require agencies to be licensed and reviewed regularly.
Has the Agency been reviewed by third party companies such as Seniors Approved
Does agency participate with websites that allow it's client to write unbiased reviews such as CareGrade.com?
Can the agency provide references? Ask for a list of doctors, hospital discharge planners and former clients who have experience with the agency.
What are the credentials of the providers?
Quality of care
Will the agency provide you with the services of nurses aides, CNAs or therapists? Will they work directly with you, your family members or your doctor?
Does the agency have references on file for home care staff?
Does office staff seem friendly and helpful and responsive?
Costs
How does the agency handle expenses and billing?
Does the agency accept long term care insurance, private pay or any other types of payments?
What resources does the agency provide to help you get financial assistance, if needed?
Understanding services
Does the agency provide a brochure that outlines fees, eligibility requirements and services provided? Many agencies provide a "patient's bill of rights" that outlines the rights and responsibilities of all parties involved.
Will you be involved in planning for care or making changes to the care plan?
Who will be working in your home, and what are his or her specific duties?
Are caregivers available round-the-clock? Is someone on call?
How does the agency address and resolve problems? Who can you or another family member contact with requests, questions or complaints?
Does the home care agency require that you have a primary family caregiver as a condition of admission? If so, what will be required of that person?
How many hours of coverage a week are allocated?
Does the agency work with hospice patients? (if this is appropriate)
Does the home health care service provide long term care or respite services.
Do they provide hourly and Live-In services?
Brought to you by Family Choice Home Care, Serving New Jersey and Pennsylvania , www.homehealthcarepa.com, 888-257-3550.
Home Care. Well I can and have written to this. People not the issue, government is. Sorry thr truth as you know it is reality. Your questions though are well worth reviewing
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information presented herein intended to substitute for the advice provided to you by any health care or other professional
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