Choosing Home Health Services
More is better when it comes to knowledge about services providers' reputations, experience, certification, licensing and philpsophies.
The following is a check list to evaluate providers of home health services. You will want to learn about several providers' services and reputations. Speaking with individuals who have been involved with a provider's history will help you to choose which provider will meet your loved one's needs.
- How long has the provider been serving the community?
- Is the agency certified? (Specific federal government standards are established and are monitored by the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment's Health Facilities Division.)
- What is the provider's philosophy of service? Will it provide you with information describing services, fees, eligibility requirements, and funding sources?
- Has the provider cared for people with needs similar to yours?
- What procedures are in place to handle emergencies? Can you reach staff members 24 hours per day?
- Can the provider assign consistent caregivers to enhance knowledge and rapport with your loved one?
- Does the provider develop a plan of care that specifies what services will be provided and by whom? Does the provider include the patient and family members in the development of the plan of care?
- Are those providing services licensed to do so? How long have these licensed staff members been involved in this type of caregiving?
- Are supervisors assigned to oversee direct care staff? How often do they make visits to ensure the quality of care being provided?
- Does this provider have a contract with your insurance company to provide services, be it Medicare or an HMO, etc.?
- Are references and criminal background checks completed before employees are hired?
- Will this provider supply references from others who are familiar with its services?
