What Should I Look For in a Provider?


Not all home health care agencies are alike. Choosing the right home health care agency is as important as choosing the right doctor and the right hospital; it’s critical to your recovery and your state of mind while regaining your health.  Don’t allow others, such as the discharge planner in the hospital, or even your doctor to make this very personal choice for you.

Find the right match. You deserve an experienced, trustworthy and highly regarded home health care agency that respects you as a human being and a patient.
  • Make a list of the qualities you seek in a home health care company.
  • Ask friends, family and your physician to recommend providers.
  • Research potential home health care providers before you select one. The internet is a good place to start.
  • Talk to the admissions or service coordinators at agencies you are considering.
  • Don’t be afraid to ask questions and keep notes of the answers. 
  • Compare the strengths and weaknesses of each potential provider to evaluate which one is right for you.
Questions to ask home health care agency staff:
  • How long have you provided care in my area?
  • Do you provide a written Individual Plan of Care?
  • Do you have staff on call 24-hours a day?
  • Does your agency have State certification?
  • Has your agency provided care for people with similar needs to mine?
  • Does your agency conduct reference checks and criminal background checks before hiring employees?
A Good Home Health Care company will:
  • Provide you with a patient bill of rights.
  • Advise you about services covered under Medicare or Medicaid and services that you will likely have to pay for yourself.
  • Commit to keeping your medical records confidential.
  • Have qualified staff re-evaluate your needs regularly.
  • Develop an Individual Plan of Care.
  • Be responsive to your questions and keep the channels of communication open by informing you of changes in your care plan, medical condition or financial arrangements.
  • Coordinate your care plan with your physician and other health care providers.
  • Educate you and your family caregivers about your health care needs and how they can be met when no professional staff is present.