Consumer Checklist

In order to ensure that you receive honest, dependable care for your loved one you need to be informed and able to discern the differences in services agencies can legally provide. Consider asking these critical care questions before you select an agency or organization to serve in your home.

Q. Does the agency hold a current license from the NC Division of Health Service Regulation?
A. Licensure ensures the agency meets specific requirements regarding the administration, standards, staff qualifications and supervision of care and needs. Be wary of entities and  organizations operating without State licensure. 

Q. Does the organization employ home care aides listed on the NC Health Care Personnel Registry?
A. The State Health Care Personnel Registry tracks allegations of abuse, neglect, fraud, diversion of drugs and misappropriation of funds or property. Also, keep in mind that individuals or organizations that operate under the independent contractor model may require you to pay unemployment and social security taxes and file the appropriate tax forms.

Q. Who supervises the in-home staff and oversees the needs and concerns of the client?
A. A licensed agency is required to have registered nurses and other licensed professionals assess and manage the client plan of care and supervise the care services of the in-home staff.

In addition to asking these questions, Hearthside Home Care urges you to keep these facts in mind:

Physicians, hospital discharge planners and friends in the community are good resources for information. Don’t be afraid to ask them for guidance choosing your Home Care provider. Agencies that provide Medicare and Medicaid services must be certified by the federal or State government and follow their Conditions of Participation. Agencies should always be immediately responsive to changing needs as well as concerns you may have. Care should be customized to meet your needs.

For more information on Hearthside Home Care, please call 866-808-1351.

… because Home is where the heart is.

Hearthside Home Care