Replacing scary headlines with solid information can help assure that a safe, qualified worker is placed in the home. As you shop for a home care agency, here are some vital questions to ask:
1. How Do You Screen Applicants?
Expect a current fingerprint card from the Department of Public Safety, a background check (including driving and credit histories), verified references, and current CPR training and TB test.
2. Is Your Staff Formally Trained?
Training needs vary. A companion-only placement doesn’t require formal nursing training, but dementia and other conditions may call for certified nursing assistant or caregiver certification.
3. What Experience Do Your Caregivers Have?
Caregivers can gain experience by working at formal nursing homes, assisted living facilities, home care agencies or private placements.
4. How Are Your Caregivers Supervised?
The home care agency should provide in-home supervisory visits to make sure medical protocols are being followed, the client-caregiver relationship is appropriate, agreed-upon tasks are being done and the client is satisfied.
5. What Insurance Does Your Company Hold?
Look for workers’ compensation (in case the caregiver is injured on duty), liability insurance (in case the client is injured), and bonding or third-party theft insurance.
6. What If a Caregiver Misses a Shift?
The home care agency should have a staff member on call at all times in case a caregiver doesn’t show up for work, a problem arises during the shift, or the client’s health changes suddenly.
7. Do You Require a Contract?
If so…run. You should be able to cancel a service with 48-hour notice.
