Whether you or an elderly loved one need help, the home health care provider you choose should be qualified to handle the demands of the job. Thus, it’s crucial to seek out highly regarded providers in your area and interview candidates before making a decision. Asking a few questions will help you feel comfortable that you hired the right agency.

What to Ask Potential Home Health Care Providers

1. Does the Agency Have a License?

The home health care agency you hire should be licensed. In fact, in some states, it’s a requirement. If the agency has a license, that means it meets minimum safety regulations and adheres to best practices set by the state.

2. How In-Depth Is the Hiring Process?

When you hire a caregiver, you are inviting them to come into your personal space. When weighing options, ask about the agency’s hiring process. Make sure they conduct extensive background checks, including criminal history and driving records, on all employees. This means the company cares about their reputation and clients’ safety, only hiring responsible, trustworthy individuals to provide care.

3. What Are the Caregiver Qualifications?

What the home health care agency looks for in employees is also important. You can easily find out by asking about the years of training, certificates, higher education degrees, on-the-job experience, and additional qualifications caregivers need to meet before they’re hired.   

4. How Are Different Situations Handled?

Life is often unpredictable, which means anything could happen while a home health aide is providing service. If you have specific concerns about emergency situations, ask how these issues would be addressed. Knowing the approach the caregivers take to solving problems will help you better gauge whether they are a good fit.

5. How Do You Schedule Caregivers 

When the same person greets you or your loved one on a daily basis, it’s easier to feel comfortable with them, which allows them to give better care. Thus, you should ask how the company schedules caregivers. This way, you’ll know whether you can expect the same people to provide care every time.

If you need a qualified home health care aide, call Brightstar of West St. Louis County at (314) 819-6000 today. They provide St. Louis, MO, residents with reliable, attentive, compassionate caregivers and home nursing services to improve their minds, bodies, and spirits. Visit the facility online to learn more about their services.