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Selecting a caregiver agency for yourself or a
loved one can be a very confusing and difficult
decision. Whether you have gotten a referral, seen an
advertisement, or are checking the yellow pages, there
are very important questions to ask to make your
decision easier. We suggest the following be asked:
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Are the caregivers employees of the agency as
opposed to independent contractors?
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Are employee DMV, social security and criminal
background checks done?
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Are the caregiver's schooling and employment
references checked?
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Does the agency screen and provide orientation for
the employees?
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Does the agency pay the employee and their taxes
and bill the client separately?
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Are the caregivers covered with workers
compensation insurance, liability insurance and
fidelity bond?
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Are initial evaluation visits made to coordinate
services?
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Are administrative ongoing visits made when needed?
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Is insurance billed as a courtesy when applicable?
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Is a service coordinator available by phone, 24
hours a day, 7 days a week?
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Are replacement caregivers available as needed?
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Does the client have the freedom to change,
increase, decrease and cancel services?
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Is the client's confidentiality protected?
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Does the agency use a team approach and consider
the needs of the client, the family and the employees?
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Was the initial contact with the agency a pleasant
and positive experience?
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A client (or an applicant) should be able to answer
"YES" to all of the above.
Additional information the client will need:
What is the hourly and/or live in rate?
Does the agency have a minimum number of hours?
How much notice does the agency need to start service?
What duties can the caregiver perform?
How established in the agency in the community?
Allowing professional caregivers into the home can
be new and sometimes frightening, but being well
informed of the qualifications of the agency and their
caregivers can make it a rewarding and positive
experience. With a little assistance, it allows the
client to remain safely in the home. After all, there
is no place like home.
For further information regarding our
services or to set up your free evaluation, please call one of our
Client Care Coordinators at:
760-328-6766
800-320-7077
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