Questions to Ask About Home Health Care Services

No matter which agency you choose to assist you with your home care needs, there are questions you should ask before making your decision.

Click here to view and download our newest resource to help you make an informed decision about your caregiving options. This resource will help you make comparing options easier.

Below are additional questions you can ask when calling for homecare options.

Cost

• In addition to the hourly rate, what other costs will I be responsible for?
• Will I receive a receipt for my payment to the caregiver?
• Will it cost me more for service on weekends, nights, and on holidays? Which holidays are observed?
• I have a long term care insurance policy. How will I get reimbursed?

Agency Qualifications

• How long has your agency been in business?
• Is the agency licensed and bonded?
• How is the agency licensed?
• Is there someone who can respond to my questions and concerns after business hours, 24 hours a day?
• What is the reputation of the agency among social service departments of local hospitals and other health care organizations?
• Does the agency have a Consumer Relations Department?
• Does the agency accept Medicare, Medicaid or long term care insurance?
• Will long term care insurance cover these services?

Caregiver Qualifications

• Does an experienced professional interview and screen caregivers?
• Can you describe the screening process used in selecting the caregivers who work through your agency?
• What does your agency require of the caregivers regarding training and experience? How is their training verified?
• Describe how your agency checks references.
• Will the caregiver be able to cook? Be specific if you have specific requirements.
• Can you refer to me a non-smoking caregiver?
• Can you refer to me caregivers who drive (If transportation is needed)? Do they have their own cars?
• Are the caregivers skilled in dealing with my specific concerns? Hospice? Alzheimer's disease? Parkinson's disease?

Agency Policy and Procedures

• How long must I wait once I've placed my request for care before a caregiver actually begins?
• Will the same caregiver come every day or will different caregivers be coming?
• Will someone from your agency call me to find out whether I am pleased with the service? Will they continue to "check in" with me?
• What if I don't feel comfortable with the caregiver referred by the agency?
• How are complaints handled?
• What do I do if I have a problem or a concern after regular business hours?
• How long will it take for someone in your office to return my call if it's after business hours?
• If I choose to cancel the services I requested, is there a fee? How much notice is required?
• How can I make changes to the caregiver's schedule?
• Can your agency respond to my request for service when given "short notice?" Is there an extra charge for such service?
• What are my responsibilities to the caregiver and to your agency?
• Do I have to provide meals for the caregiver?
• Do live-in caregivers require a private bedroom?
• Will the caregiver you send me clean my house and do my laundry?
• Do I need to sign a contract with your agency?