How to Choose a Professional Home Care Provider, Continued

When choosing a home care provider, it’s important to ask for references. Suitable references include doctors, discharge planners and other patients or their family members. Be sure to contact the references and ask questions such as:

• Do you refer clients to this provider often?

• Do you and the provider have a contractual relationship? If so, do you require that the provider meets special standards for quality care?

• What feedback have you received from patients under the care of this provider?

• Do you know if this provider has cared for people with conditions similar to those of my loved one? If so, can you provide me with contact information for these individuals?

Of course, one of the factors you must consider in obtaining professional care for your loved one is the cost.