Setting Expectations: Questions to Ask Your Home Health Agency

Establishing a relationship with a home health provider can be overwhelming, especially when you’re unsure about the specifics of their role in your child’s care. To ensure a smooth start, here are key questions to ask your home health agency:

1. Backup Plans and Coverage

Backup Plan: Does your agency have a backup plan if the nurse calls in sick?
Handling Concerns: What should I do if I have concerns about the care my child is receiving?
Nurse Compatibility: What happens if the nurse and my child don’t get along?

2. Services and Responsibilities

Services Provided: What services will you be providing to my child?
Additional Providers: What do I need to receive from other providers, such as equipment or therapies?
Shift Management: How do I cancel or reschedule a shift?
Make-Up Hours: Can I make up the hours I didn’t receive over the course of a week if our family schedule changes?

3. Family Responsibilities

Pre-Shift Duties: What are my family’s responsibilities before each nursing shift?
Room Cleanliness: Is it the responsibility of the primary caregiver (parent, guardian, other family member) to ensure the cleanliness of the child’s room at all times?

Coordinating Coverage

You may need to coordinate care from two different home health agencies to ensure your child receives all necessary services. Here’s how to manage this coordination effectively:

Service Hours: The doctor may require your child to receive eight, 12, or even 24 hours of care each day, which might be beyond the capacity of a single agency.
Agency Collaboration: Home health agencies that serve pediatric patients are experienced in collaborating and sharing patients. Ensure that both agencies are informed about any changes in your child’s care.
Communication: Start an email chain with your main contacts at each agency to keep them updated on your child’s care needs and any changes.
Case Manager Assistance: Your case manager at the managed care organization can assist in coordinating care between agencies to ensure a seamless experience for your family.

By addressing these questions and following these coordination tips, you can help set clear expectations and create a more organized and supportive care environment for your child.