How should I choose?

There is no perfect checklist to find the best care provider because each patient's needs are different. However, the list below includes some of the most important aspects of homecare. Remember that each person must decide what matters most to them and make a choice based on those factors.

Before you choose, consider the following:

• What is the location of the on call nurses?

• Are staff well-qualified, trained and had their backgrounds checked?

• How often will the staff visit?

• Does the provider include the patient, his or her family members, and the patient’s physician in determining the plan of care?

• What is the provider’s method of communicating with the patient, his or her family, and physician regarding the progress and changes in care?

• What services does the agency provide and what is the cost of those services?

• Does the provider have any accreditations?

• Will the provider supply you with a list of references?