Issue link: https://www.newlifestylesdigital.com/i/428000
53 6) Can you send me information describing your services and fees? This may seem like a basic question, but a company that has not spent the time developing important informational materials such as these probably hasn't done many other important tasks either. Not only will these materials help you compare their services to those of other agencies, but they may also provide useful details that you hadn't thought of earlier. More than likely, an agency that sends you detailed, carefully considered materials for your review has also gone the extra mile in other aspects of its business. 7) What is the company's replacement policy or guarantee? If you want to avoid getting "a lemon," ask about the company's replacement or guarantee policy. In most cases, a good agency will give you as many replacements as needed whenever needed without limitation. For those people wanting a caregiver on a referral basis, wherein you handle the payroll and insurance obligations, you should get at least three months to see if the individual will be suitable to you (of course, the more the better, but certainly no less than three months). 8) What are your financial procedures? Are your rates negotiable? Most agencies have a lot of fixed costs to incorporate into their quoted rates. However, they also know that not all clients have the same ability to pay. Some agencies may be prepared to make a deal. If you're flexible about the age, number of years of experience of the caregiver, or English speaking abilities, perhaps you can get reduced rates. Most agencies come in contact with eager, honest and hardworking people who are anxious to gain experience and English skills. So if money is an issue, this approach may work for you. Even if you choose not to negotiate, ask to see written statements explaining all of the agency's costs and payment plan options. This will clear up any discrepancies before they occur. 9) Would you mind providing me with references? It pays to find out if the Agency's clients are satisfied with the services they're getting. Sometimes old references don't reflect current management conditions, so it's best to ask for testimonials from their more recent jobs. You might also want to ask to talk with clients who have had a long history with the agency so that you can get a good sense for how they do business and what you can expect from them. 10) Can we set up a time to meet to discuss the details of my care needs? It's always a good idea to meet the Agency's principal(s) or representative(s) and to see their setting if possible. It's also good to have them come over to your place so that you can meet them at your convenience. Home care can get expensive, so you want to be sure that the people you'll be dealing with can be relied upon to give you the best service possible. Also, the advantage of going to their office is that you can make some assess ments about them that you can't just by talking on the phone. Are they a boiler room operation or are they organized and corporate? Are they a small company or a large one? Shirley Cohen is the founder and managing director of Home Sweet Home Care, Inc., a private duty home care agency providing quality home care aide services to seniors and convalescing adults in the San Francisco Bay Area since 1990. Shirley founded Home Sweet Home Care in response to her own urgent need and desire to find the right home care help for her mother, who had suffered a sudden and paralyzing stroke.