Exploring Home Health Care Services

Posted on: 5 June 2015

If you or a loved one suffer from a chronic illness, or are being discharged from the hospital after surgery or a long-term illness, you may need the services that a home health care agency provides. Most cities have a variety of options when it comes to home health agencies, so it is essential to ask a number of important questions to ensure that you hire a home health care agency that can provide the proper level of care.

How Long Has the Company Been in Business?

There is a high demand for home health care companies, which has resulted in a number of new companies opening up. It is in your best interest to hire a home health care agency that is established, has years of experience, and focuses on hiring the most qualified caregivers.

Does the Company Provide an Initial In-Home Assessment with a Registered Nurse?

Depending on the level of care you need, a certified health aide or licensed practical nurse (LPN) may suffice. But the best way to ensure that you will get the level of care that you need is to hire a home health care agency that has a registered nurse (RN) perform the initial in-home assessment. A registered nurse has the skills and expertise to assess medical issues and the personal needs of a new patient; after the assessment will be able to communicate with the home health care agency to develop the best possible care plan.

What is the Company's Plan When a Caregiver Can't Work a Shift?

There may be times when a caregiver is ill or has family commitments that prevent them from working his or her shift; a good home health care agency will have a solid plan to ensure that all shifts are covered and all patients receive care, even if a caregiver has to call in to work.

What is the Caregiver Hiring Process?

When it comes to the health care of you or a loved one, it is essential to work with an agency that provides highly skilled and experienced caregivers who have undergone thorough background checks. Look for a home health care agency that requires comprehensive criminal and background checks, random drug testing and pre-employment skills testing.

Does the Company Provide Around the Clock Service?

Patients don't necessarily only need medical care during normal business hours. Some people need care over night, while others may need around the clock care depending on their medical condition. If you or a loved one are in the position of needing care at irregular hours, make sure you hire a home health care agency that can accommodate your needs no matter what day of the week it is, or what time it is.