Home Health Services help people maintain their independence while they remain at home during an illness, but abuse can happen. It is important to do research before selecting an agency. Your physician should be able to guide you.

Questions to ask before choosing an agency:

• How long has an agency provided care in your area?
• Do they provide a written care plan for each patient?
• Is there a nursing supervisor on call 24-hours a day?
• Is the agency certified?
• Have they provided care for people with similar needs?
• Does the agency conduct reference checks and criminal background checks before hiring employees?

What to Expect With a Certified Home Agency:

• Before services start, you should be advised about the extent to which Medicare and/or Medicaid will pay for services and which services you may likely have to pay for yourself.
• Remember, the agency is responsible for all of the care that you receive, from their employees, or from others they may contract with to provide your care.
• Medical Records are confidential under the laws that govern them and agencies must adhere to those laws.