This is a continuation of a previous article on the same topic – here is Part 1
What is the protocol for employee absence from the agency?
In the event that a caregiver/home health care provider becomes ill or has to be absent from their post for any reason, it is important to know what the agency does to fill in the gaps in their stead. Finding out whether another employee will fill in for the absent one or will the client be without their home health care services until the absent employee returns.
How long has the caregiver/home health agency been in business in the community?
An agency that has been in business for a number of years will either have a proven track record or a long list of red flags associated with their company. Newer agencies who haven’t been in business as long have not had time to amass enough positive feedback or enough complaints for a family to make a well informed choice, based on the experience of others.
Does the agency create a plan for each client’s care?
An agency that plans, prepares, and maintains an effective plan for a client’s care demonstrates a vested interest in providing the client with care tailored to meet their needs. Agencies who just ‘wing it’ when it comes to providing caregiver/home health care services to clients are more likely to overlook important aspects of the client’s care, which could present an array of problems in the future.
Does the agency have a current license to operate in their state or city?
This is a commonly overlooked, but very important thing to investigate when choosing a home health agency. Many families just assume that the agency must be certified to provide caregiver/home health care services since they are in business. Perhaps the agency did have a license at one time, but for whatever reason, it is now revoked. Both of these things are crucial for the family members to know before making their choice.
How does the agency handle liability issues?
If an employee of a home health agency were to cause injury to the client, be it by accident or intent, what liability does the agency claim in the situation, if any? An agency who agrees, in writing, to take full responsibility for the actions of their employees are more likely to employee well-trained, thoroughly researched people to provide their services.
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Tags: bradenton, caregiver, home health care, longboat key, sarasota, venice
