What To Ask When Looking For Home Care Services?

Although California does not require a state license to own a home care agency, the company you choose should meet the most stringent licensing requirements across the country that help protect and provide for the clients.

The company you choose should have professional and general liability, bonding and Worker’s Compensation coverage in case of a mishap. Some firms have only minimal coverage and some none at all.

You want only the most ethical, skilled and compassionate caregivers in your home. It is important that the agency not only run a check on the last place a person worked, but complete a complex multi-state check on all the places they have lived, their driving records and reference checks from previous supervisors.

Often times, an agency will simply hire someone without much experience and even less credentials. Reputable agencies have requirements for levels of experience, certification and annual training. Select a firm that requires companion caregivers to be thoroughly trained through a recognized program. Although Certified Nursing Assistants are state certified, they need to be trained in the agency’s policies, procedures and standards along with the diseases of the aged.

It is difficult to receive good care if different caregivers show up every week. A good home care provider will insist on continuity of care and carefully match each client with the proper caregiver.

A reputable agency will provide you with a detailed process for dealing with complaints or service questions. All clients should be given the agency contact person and phone number to resolve any concerns that may arise.

Emergencies can happen and a quality agency will have policies, procedures and plans in place to deal with emergencies if they do occur. Its employees will be thoroughly trained in how to respond to any serious situation.

An agency that provides detailed, carefully considered materials for your review, more than likely, has gone the extra mile in other aspects of its business. These should include rates, minimal hourly requirements, billing cycles and any required deposits.

A reputable agency will create an individualized plan of care for each new client. It should be carefully and professionally developed with the client and family members. The care plan should be written and a copy left with the client. The plan should list specific duties, work hours/days, and the name and phone number of the supervisor in charge. The care plan should be evaluated, updated and revised as the client’s needs change.

An Agency should have an extensive and detailed plan about their hiring process. It should include pre-screening, interviews, reference checks, and an independent background check. They should also have an initial comprehensive training program that is required and a training manual to support this education. Because advances are being made every day, agencies must have required annual training to ensure all caregivers are compliant with new information.