Cues to help spot a good home healthcare staff

Finding the right home healthcare provider to care for an aging loved one or assist with daily living tasks can feel overwhelming. With so many agencies to choose from, how can you be sure the staff they send will be competent, compassionate and provide the quality of care your family needs? When it comes to choosing a home healthcare staff, the stakes are high. You’re inviting someone into your personal space, entrusting them with your well-being or that of a loved one. So, how do you separate the wheat from the chaff? Here are some essential cues to guide you:

Credentials and Certifications

All staff should have the proper licenses and certifications for their roles. Ask to see copies of certifications for CNAs, medical technicians, physical therapists and other specialized roles. Reputable agencies ensure their employees maintain up-to-date credentials through ongoing education.

Positive References and Reviews

Check online reviews on sites like Google, Facebook and specialty review sites. Look for consistent feedback about staff being reliable, caring and responsive to needs. You can also ask the agency for references from past clients and call a few to discuss experiences with different caregivers.

Thorough Screening Process

Agencies that thoroughly screen new hires, including criminal background checks, drug testing, and verification of work history help ensure only qualified candidates are hired. Ask about their screening and hiring practices.

Comprehensive Training

In addition to certification training, find out if the agency provides role-specific onboarding as well as ongoing in-service classes. Staff should understand conditions like dementia, fall prevention, medication management and more to provide knowledgeable care.

Low Staff Turnover

High turnover is a red flag, as it means caregivers are not sticking around. Ask how long staff have been with the company on average. Agencies with long-tenured employees likely have a positive culture with competitive pay and benefits.

With these signs, you can feel confident that you will choose experienced, compassionate staff who are well-equipped to meet your loved one's needs. Choosing the good agency and great staff makes all the difference in ensuring the best quality of care.