There can be many reasons to employ a home care provider. Home care assistance helps those who are disabled, recovering, or terminally ill with activities necessary for daily living, and can consist of nursing, medical, therapeutic, or social treatment. Home care is popular amongst elderly adults who want to retain independence, but do not want to move to a nursing home or burden their loved ones with the responsibility of caring for them on a daily basis.
Assemble a List of Providers
The right home care provider will treat your loved one with compassion and dignity, while providing a quality level of service. Contact your loved one's hospital for a list of reputable providers, and ask friends or colleagues if they've had any personal experience with a certain provider.
Narrow down the list of providers by reading information on their website or reading their pamphlet. Speak with another loved one close to the patient, and the patient themselves about the different companies. Feel free to call the providers if any questions arise as you're doing research.
Interview Prospective Providers
Once a consensus is reached about the three providers that best match the patient, arrange to visit their offices in person or ask if a representative is able to come to the house. This will help you assess their qualifications, and determine their level of professionalism.
Important Questions
? How long has the home care provider been in existence?
? What is the selection process for training employees?
? Is a medical professional (nurse, doctor, therapist) required to evaluate the patient's needs?
? How is an emergency concerning the patient handled?
? Are caregivers available at all hours?
? How does the provider enforce patient confidentiality?
? Has the provider cared for another person in the same situation as my loved one?
? Are family members involved in updates or changes to the care provided?
? Will a supervisor or medical professional oversee the quality of care my loved one receives? If so, how often?
? How will the provider resolve a problem should we have a complaint or concern?
Request Additional Information
Request any additional information pertaining to the service the caregiver will provide. Most providers carry a Patient's Bill of Rights, which outlines the responsibilities of all parties involved: the provider, patient, and caregiver. Also, ask for information relating to cost and fees, and find out if Medicare of health insurance could help cover the expense. (This may be a question for their main office, as the caregiver may not be versed in the billing process).
Ask the provider for a list of references from previous patients, doctors, or family that are familiar with their care and services. Upon completing the interviews, speak with your loved one about which provider seemed to be the best match. Proceed with calling the references given, and ask about their experience with the home care provider, how long the patient received care, etc. Ask if there were any problems or complications, and how well the home care provider resolved the issues.
Summary
Your loved one deserves to be served with compassion, grace, and dignity. Be diligent when choosing a home care provider, and do not be afraid to voice any concerns you may have.
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