Use caution when hiring a caregiver

Recordnet.com: Use caution when hiring a caregiver: "Questions to ask before hiring a caregiver:

• How is the caregiver screened and trained?

• What are the qualifications of the caregiver?

• How will the caregiver be instructed as to the duties and any special tasks?

• Who will check on the caregiver?

• If hiring through an agency, does the agency have written personnel policies and a fair wage scale?

• Are caregivers covered by liability and workers’ compensation insurance and a dishonesty bond?

• What is the charge for the service, and what is included in that charge?

• Is there a minimum charge even if a service is not provided?

• Are payroll taxes paid by the company or is the customer responsible?

• Are there extra charges, such as overtime or travel, the customer must pay?

• How often will the customer be billed, and will insurance or another payer be billed directly?

• What if the customer doesn’t like the quality of care, and how will those issues be resolved?

• Who do I call in an emergency?

• Who is the caregiver’s supervisor?

— Source: California Association for Health Services at Home"