Marilyn is a 72-year-old widow who recently underwent heart angioplasty surgery. She is preparing to leave the hospital soon. But recovering from open-heart surgery is a long process, and her family knows she will need continued medical assistance once she gets home. The family must find a reputable home health care agency that can provide licensed nurses as well as aides to tend to Marilyn on a daily basis.
Finding the right agency can be a daunting task, but not impossible, says Tilly Gambill, Manager of Marketing and Communications for the American Association for Homecare.
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"People often receive home health services following a hospitalization or care in other care settings. Often the hospital discharge planner or social worker provides information on home health agencies," Gambill says. "Ask the hospital for a list of home health care agencies in your community. In some communities, there may fewer available agencies. Physicians, friends, and family can recommend home health agencies, as well."
The family got 2 references from the hospital and one from a family friend whose father with hypertension and diabetes receives home care services weekly.
To help them select the right home health care provider and aide, the National Association for Home Care suggests asking the following questions:
Questions to Ask a Home Care Provider
- What are the qualifications and experience?
- How long has the agency been in business?
- Is the agency evaluated and accredited by a governing agency such as The Joint Commission's Home Care Accreditation Program?
- Is the agency licensed by the state?
- Can the agency provide references? Ask for a list of doctors, hospital discharge planners and former clients who have experience with the agency.
How does the agency protect client confidentiality?
- Is the agency inspected by any outside organization? May I see the results of the last inspection?
- Does the agency perform a customer satisfaction survey? May I see the results of the last survey?