Research & Questions to Ask In Home Care Agencies
Posted on 26. Aug, 2010 by Aaron Yeagle in In-Home Care
In the senior care industry the term “non-medical”, when used in reference to in home care agencies, indicates the in home care agency does not provide nursing services, or medication injections/management. Non-medical in home care agencies typically provide most other assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs), including bathing dressing, meal prep, housekeeping, and companionship. When considering non-medical in home care services, here are a few things you might want to investigate
How long has the in home care agency been in business?
Does the in home care agency provide a written plan that details services to be provided by each caregiver?
Do they provide contracts or similar documents detailing the cost of services before they begin? This helps avoid any misunderstanding on the financials.
What are the requirements to be accepted for in home care?
Are the in home caregivers insured and bonded?
Is there a criminal background check performed prior to employment with the in home care agency?
Does the company provide worker’s compensation for the in home caregivers? This is important so that you are not responsible for any injuries that occur during the provision of services.
Can they provide caregivers for 24 hour in home care?
What procedures does the in home care agency have for emergencies? Is a supervisor on call and available to speak to outside of business hours?
Does the agency have a policy in place on addressing and resolving grievances and complaints?
Is there a policy regarding replacing a caregiver who is ill?
Does the in home care agency have any testimonials or references available?
Does the family have an opportunity to interview the in home care agency? The caregivers?
Is the person who writes the plan of care qualified to do so? How so?
Will the family and the client be involved in writing the care plan or making changes to the care plan?
This list of questions, while lengthy, is not intended to be all-inclusive. The specifics of what you or your loved one will need from your future in home care agency varies from others so the line of questioning might be different. It is also a good idea to consult a physician, social worker, or other professional when researching in home care agencies.