Since non-medical home care agencies are not licensed in Arizona, there are no set standards that all agencies have to follow. Here are some important questions to consider when selecting a home care agency, whether referring a client or for your own family:
- Are the caregivers employees of the agency, or are they contractors? Some agencies pay their caregivers on a contract basis (i.e. no taxes taken out) rather than as an employee. Why does that matter to the consumer? Contractors cannot be bonded or insured by the agency. Also, they are not covered by worker’s compensation. If there is an accident on the job, the client could have financial liability. Back injuries to a caregiver can mean months – or even years – of medical and disability payments, creating substantial financial hardship for the client.
- Why would an agency use contracted caregivers instead of employees? It’s far less expensive, and more profitable for the agency! No payroll taxes, worker’s comp, liability insurance or bonding! Protect your client by making sure the agency you use employs its caregivers!
- How are the caregivers supervised? Does a supervisor come to the home to evaluate the client’s needs and the care they’re receiving, and how often?
- How does the agency screen and select its caregivers? Are criminal background checks conducted and references checked for every employee?
For more information or questions to consider when selecting an agency, please call us.
