At some point in your care giving experience, an educated decision regarding home care agencies will become critical.

We have some essential questions that can help prepare you for this difficult decision.

• What type of agency is this? (Home Care, Employment, Registry/Broker or Independent Contractor)
• Does the agency accept the responsibility for any of the following with regards to its staff?(Screening, Training, Insurance, Supervision)
• How long as the agency provided this kind of care?
• How does the agency screen and select caregivers for an assignment?
• Does the agency hire independent contractors?
• What of the following are conducted with all employees? How often? (References Verified, Drug Testing and Criminal Background Screen)
• Who helps our family develop an individualized plan of care? Is he/she a licensed health care professional?
• How are emergencies handled outside of business hours?

For a printable version with helpful suggestions and notes click here.

Filed under: Caregiving, Eldercare, Home Care Agencies, Long Term Care