Bringing in extra help at home can relieve the stress placed upon you and your family when caring for a loved one. However, selecting the right in-home care provider can be a daunting task. The first step is to see what your needs are, including what tasks will be handled and how often. Next, their physician and a home care assessment can help identify the best care type.
Confirmations Before Choosing an In-Home Care Provider
Once the needs are identified, it is time to interview local in-home care providers. If possible, take your time during this process and confirm as much information as possible, including:
1. Confirm Certification
Both Medicaid and Medicare afford coverage to eligible patients if your care is provided by a caretaker who works for a certified home health care agency. Ask those you interview if they are certified by either organization.
2. Confirm Credentials
Ask the home health agency if their caretakers have been background checked and receive regular training. Additionally, request they provide a list of all professional accreditations, certifications, and licenses they carry.
3. Confirm Reputation
Make sure the home health agency you choose has good standing within your community and the Better Business Bureau. In addition, contact your local Chamber of Commerce to seek references and recommendations for local service providers.
4. Confirm Availability
Find out when caretakers are available and if they meet your daily needs. If you require 24-hour care, confirm the service provider you choose is available at any time, including holidays and weekends.
5. Confirm Care Plans
Home care providers should meet your specific needs. Ask to ensure your care provider will use the information provided by your doctors and home health team to create a personal care plan.
After Hiring
Hiring an in-home care provider is not the end of the evaluation process. Continue to ensure quality assurance checks are made, and your in-home health care plan is reviewed regularly.
Importance of In-Home Health Care and How an Insurance Professional Can Help
In-home health care can be the right solution to provide the support your loved one needs. Although the selection process can be time-consuming, asking the right questions can provide peace of mind once a choice has been made.
As you will quickly learn, the cost of care gets expensive fast. Contact my office today to make sure you have a plan in place to help cover the costs of care for you in the future.
