Hearthside wants you to make an informed decision when faced with choosing an agency to provide quality care to you or your loved one. Standards, licensing, safety and integrity are important issues to address. Below are questions you need to ask as you begin your search for the company that can best provide you or your loved one with the appropriate level of care and ensure peace of mind for the client and family.

• Does the agency hold a current license from the NC Division of Health Service Regulation? Licensure ensures the agency meets specific requirements regarding the administration of the agency, staff qualifications and supervision of patient care and records.
• How long has your agency served the community?
• Are your home care aides and companions bonded and insured?
• How do you select, screen and train your home care employees?
• How is the aide or companion supervised?
• Is a criminal background check done on the in-home employees? Licensed agencies are required to do criminal background checks on all employees that enter a patient's home.
• Does a registered nurse design the plan for my care? Can my family be involved?
• How is care coordinated with my physician?
• What happens when my needs change?
• How do you address concerns and complaints?
• What happens if my aide is ill or unable to come?
• What financial options are available?
• How is the billing and insurance handled?
• I insist on privacy. How do you ensure confidentiality?
• Does the agency pay the aide and see to the appropriate payroll taxes and withholdings or will I have to take on that responsibility?

For the right answers and assistance with healthcare decisions, call Hearthside Home Care to assist you in selecting the best and most appropriate care option for you or your loved one.