What are some tips for hiring agencies and independent home care providers?
Agencies will typically be the most expensive; independent providers will be the least expensive. However, home care agencies are also easier to use, since the agency finds and places the provider, handles payroll and any problems that may arise, and usually provides coverage for sick or absent providers. Agencies that are licensed and bonded are generally a good choice, although there are always exceptions. You have avenues of recourse (complaints, legal action) when dealing with agencies that are liable for problems. There is no real recourse (except firing) when dealing with independent providers or ones found through registries. Before hiring an independent provider: • Conduct an in-depth interview with each candidate, preferably in person rather than on the phone; • Be specific about all of the tasks that the provider will be expected to take on; • Discuss salary and offer to pay wages either weekly or bi-weekly. Do not pay wages in advance; • Request both work and personal refere
