It may seem bewildering and overwhelming when you have to choose a residential hospice care provider because so much is at stake, both emotionally and financially, for your loved one and the family. It’s important to ask the questions that will satisfy your quest to find the best care to ensure that your loved one is as comfortable as possible.
If you’re looking for a hospice provider,
call us at (702) 509-5276 or contact us online.
Questions to Ask a Residential Hospice Provider
The following six questions may help you make the best choice for your unique situation and circumstances:
1. What kinds of insurance do you accept?
Be sure that the organizations you interview take the kinds of insurance that cover your loved one and whether the agency bills the insurance provider directly.
2. What kinds of nursing does your license cover?
Some home care agencies aren’t licensed to provide skilled nursing care, which means that they won’t be able to provide health support beyond cooking, cleaning, companionship and possibly non-medical transportation services. Most people in hospice care require periodic visits from an R.N. who assesses the individual’s condition and reports it back to the medical team managing his or her care. It’s also important to learn the frequency of nursing visits along with the other support services that a residential hospice provider delivers.
3. Is transportation available?
Your loved one may need to visit a doctor or have lab work done that requires transportation. It’s good to know if the agency provides specialized medical transportation services that meet the physical needs of the patient like medical vans outfitted for wheelchairs or gurneys.
4. How do you hire your staff and accept volunteers?
All medical and care providers in Nevada must hire licensed nurses and LPNs. You can check the Nevada State Board of Nursing for current licenses. Obtaining a license requires classroom training and education, along with passing the state’s examination and a background check. Also, licensed medical professionals must continue their educations to keep their licenses active. While volunteers do not need medical training, they must pass rigorous background checks.
You can also learn what the agency’s track record is with previous clients. As medical providers, the state has to provide the public with information about the agency and any complaints lodged against them. Medicare and Medicaid also keep records of company performance, and these data are also publicly available.
5. Do you offer any respite services?
Respite services focus on giving caregiver support and are an important element of the services a residential hospice provider offers. Being able to take a break will renew and rejuvenate you, and it’s important to have trusted backup volunteers or staff available so that you can get away to recharge your batteries. An in-home hospice care agency that offers 24/7 nursing care will give you peace of mind, as well.
6. Does the residential hospice provider have emotional or spiritual support for caregivers?
Having people who are compassionate, sensitive and knowledgeable about the emotional challenges associated with the end-of-life issues available will help you and your family better understand the situation and your reactions. While support groups are available locally and online, it’s always good to know that someone is nearby to help you through.
For more information on finding hospice services to fulfill your care need, download or free home hospice care guide.If you have any more questions that you need answers to, please contact us today at 702-509-5276.
