Choosing a home health agency is an important decision that directly affects the quality of care your loved one receives. With thousands of agencies operating across the country, knowing what to look for can help you make an informed choice.
Step 1: Verify Medicare Certification
The most fundamental requirement is Medicare certification. This means the agency has met federal standards for quality and safety. Medicare-certified agencies are regularly inspected and must comply with Conditions of Participation set by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS).
Step 2: Check Quality Ratings
Medicare's Home Health Compare tool (available at medicare.gov) provides quality ratings for every Medicare-certified home health agency. Look for agencies with star ratings of 4 or above, and pay attention to specific measures like:
Step 3: Ask the Right Questions
When evaluating an agency, ask:
Step 4: Consider Practical Factors
Step 5: Check References and Reviews
Ask the agency for references from current or former patients. Also check online reviews, though keep in mind that healthcare reviews can be unreliable. Your doctor, hospital discharge planner, or our care advisors can also recommend agencies they trust.
Red Flags to Watch For
Be cautious of agencies that:
Choosing the right home health agency takes some research, but it is worth the effort. Our care advisors can help you evaluate your options for free.