I recently started my LLC providing assistance for elders and adults with disabilities in Wyoming. I am a caregiver and I have also hired 2 independent contractors to work with me.
At this time we help with cooking, cleaning and driving clients to appointments. Many of my clients need more personal care that a CNA can provide. I have been considering hiring a CNA as an independent contractor to join my team but I worry about the liability.
If anyone can assist me with any advice that would be greatly appreciated.
Thank you so much!
One of our contributors, Brunt, just opened her own Caregiving business. Maybe she can help you.
I would consider spending some time and money with a good elder care attorney in your area who can point you in the direction of learning all of the rules and regulations for your state (there will be many and there will be oversight, and ignorance of the rules will be no excuse under the law).
Form a list of questions and do this before taking on any clients. You are responsible for a whole lot when you have a business and are not just hiring out as a caregiver. Your need for excellent insurance will be a must. Just think of how often elders fall (and they inevitably DO due to balance issues). Read on Forum the numbers of upset family members wishing to bring suit against caregivers.
There's so much to know in terms of rules, regulations, liability, bookkeeping and so on.
You are so very needed, but you have taken on a really, really tough job in which you will be the one "at blame" in the minds of families who have difficulties with their seniors and the care.
Do visit the admins of other small facilities doing this work, if you haven't already. Ask for a quiet sit down over coffee. Just ask them "What don't I know! What here can I not imagine? What is worst case screnario for me?"
No matter how much information you have it can never be enough.
I will give you one simple for-instance:
When my brother (Dx. probable early Lewy's) was in care he was quite early in diagnosis and doing quite well. Some hallucination but he was AWARE it was. However, some paranoia he was NOT aware of, and he believed he had money taken. I couldn't convince him otherwise and he reported it. Later, of course, he found it. Both admins and I myself knew he was mistaken. But they HAD TO according to them and according to regulations call police and report the theft. Sadly. Here they had the rule "no cash to be kept in room". STILL they had to call police.
I wish you so very much good luck going forward. You are taking on a lot. People always consider the cost of care; they never consider the realities of those giving that care. It's why so few will take it on without corporate backup.