How to Choose Quality Support Services
Start by talking with friends, neighbors and your local aging program to learn more about services and home health care agencies in your community. Consider using the following questions to guide your search:
- How long has the agency served your community?
- Does the agency have a brochure describing services and costs?
- If so, download it or take a copy with you.
- Is the agency an approved Medicare provider?
- Is the agency accredited by a national organization certifying the quality of care?
- For example the Joint Commission for the Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations
- Is the agency licensed to practice in Nevada?
- If so, are they in good standing? Visit http://dpbh.nv.gov/Reg/HealthFacilities/dta/Media/Find_a_Health_Facility/#content to see if an agency has violated any state or federal regulations.
- Does the agency offer a Bill of Rights that describes the rights and responsibilities of both the agency and the person receiving care?
- Does the agency prepare a care plan for the patient (with input from the patient, his or her doctor and family members)?
- Will the agency update the plan as necessary?
- How closely do supervisors oversee care to ensure quality?
- Are agency staff members available around the clock, seven days a week, if necessary?
- Does the agency have a nursing supervisor available for on-call assistance at all time?
- Who does the agency call if the home health care worker cannot come when scheduled?
- How does the agency ensure patient confidentiality?
- How are agency caregivers hired and trained?
- How does the agency screen prospective employees?
- Will the agency provide a list of references for its caregivers?
- What is the procedure for resolving problems, if they occur?
- Whom can I call with questions or complaints?
- Is there a sliding fee schedule based on ability to pay, and is financial assistance available to pay for services?