How Do I Choose a Home Care Provider?

Finding the best home care provider for your needs requires a little research, but it is time well spent. You have the right to choose any home care provider who is qualified to provide the services you need, although that choice may be restricted somewhat if you are enrolled in a managed care plan like a Medicare HMO.

Here are some questions to consider when deciding which home care provider is best for you:

• How long has the provider been serving the community and what services does the provider offer? 
• Does your physician know the reputation of the provider? 
• Is the provider certified by Medicare? Only Medicare-certified agencies can provide services covered by Medicare. 
• Is the provider licensed? In Connecticut a home care agency must be licensed by the Connecticut State Department of Public Health. What other credentials does the provider maintain? 
• Does the provider have written statements describing its services, eligibility requirements, fees, patient rights, confidentiality, complaint procedures, hours of service, and emergency arrangements? 
• How does the provider select its employees? Does the provider ensure that its workers are functioning under written personnel policies, clinical protocols, and malpractice insurance? What back-up systems are in place to ensure continuity of care? 
• Will the agency continue to provide services if Medicare or other sources of reimbursement are exhausted?