Choosing a home care provider in is one of the most important decisions you can make for your family. It’s important to ask a number of questions during the interview process with a potential provider you may be looking for in St. Louis.
1. What is the background of your company?
Research the history and ownership of the company. What type of licenses do they have? Is it involved in professional organizations?
2. How long has your company been in business?
How many years the firm has been in business is not always pertinent to the quality of care given, but it does reflect on the stability and success of the company. It may be one good factors if you have more limited information in other areas.
3. What qualifications, experience and training is required of your workers?
Find out if caregivers’ credentials are investigated. Plus, determine whether caregivers undergo a thorough, professional testing and screening process. Ask what ongoing training is provided.
4. Are your staff employees or contract workers? Are they insured and bonded?
Ask about your personal liability and tax obligations if workers are contract employees. For your protection, ensure that all caregivers are insured and bonded by the home care agency.
5. How do you supervise your workers to make sure the proper care is given?
Some agencies make regularly scheduled quality assurance calls and visits. To further ensure quality care, see that all caregivers are regularly and closely supervised by a qualified company representative.
6. Will the same employee continue with my case?
It is difficult to receive good care if different people are showing up every week. A good home care provider will be concerned with continuity of care.
7. Do you conduct a home visit before starting the home care service?
When choosing the home care services right for you, it is important that the patient and family members discuss the kind of care needed with a home care representative. This will help you determine whether the home care provider can meet your needs.
8. Do you work with my doctor in developing a plan of care?
If you require care beyond that associated with activities of daily living, your doctor ought to be involved. Most agencies will work directly with your doctor in arranging and planning for your care.
9. Can you give me some references from doctors, hospital personnel or social workers?
Ask for names of people, not just the name of a hospital or organization. One good question to ask these professionals or patients: “Would you use this company again for yourself or your loved ones?”
10. Do you guarantee customer satisfaction?
Find out if there is a length of time you will be committed to the home care provider even if you are unhappy with the care they are providing. The home care provider should guarantee care and cancel charges for unsatisfactory service.
