Choosing an In-Home Care Provider
When choosing a home care provider, you are inviting someone into the home to care for your most precious asset, your loved one. It is important to research your options and ask the right questions. Reaching out to friends, relatives, or a trusted advisor for home care agency recommendations is a great place to start. Your medical providers, such as your hospital discharge planner, social worker, case manager, or even your family doctor, may also have suggestions. In addition, here are some top questions to ask a home care agency to ensure the right fit.
Top Questions to Ask a Home Care Agency
- Does my state license home care agencies? If ‘yes’ – Is the agency licensed? If ‘no’ – Does the agency follow policies and procedures similar to those in a licensed state?
- Is the agency locally owned and operated? Are the owners on-site and actively managing the agency?
- Are the agency’s caregivers direct employees or independent contractors?
- What screening and background checks does the agency run on its caregivers? Are these national, local, or both? Are caregivers bonded and insured?
- What sort of training do caregivers receive? Is training ongoing?
- Will an agency supervisor evaluate the quality of care my loved one receives? How often?
- How is billing and payment handled?
- How does the agency ensure that family members responsible for care stay informed and included? What if I live in a different state?
- What provisions are there for backup care? Who do I call if no one shows up? Does the agency have someone on call? After hours? What provisions are there for care during a disaster?
- What is the process for resolving issues? Who can I call to discuss concerns?
- Am I required to commit to a long term contract?
- How long will it take to get a caregiver?
- How will my loved one get matched with the right caregiver for their needs?
You have questions. We have answers.
Find out what SYNERGY HomeCare can do for you and your family.
(847) 483-1670
