Choosing a Kansas City Home Health Agency

If you’re growing older and have decided you could use some extra help at home, or if you’re caring someone who needs some additional assistance, it may be time to start looking for a Kansas City home health agency. But where should you start? Here are some things to consider:

What type of services do need? Do you need an agency that provides Alzheimer’s or dementia care? Help with bathing, grooming, dressing, or toileting? Companion services? Around-the-clock care? Respite for your caregiver? End of life care? If you know what you need, you can easily eliminate any home care agencies that don’t provide those services.

Are the agency’s employees bonded, insured and pre-screened? If not, you might be safer moving on to another agency.

Does the agency employ caregivers who are trained to provide the type of services you need? For example, do you need nursing care? If so, is it provided?

How long has the agency been in business in Kansas City? You’ll want to choose an agency that’s established in the community.

Will I have the same providers consistently or someone new each day? It’s safer to choose a provider that values continuity of care.

Who will be involved in developing my plan of care? Yourself? Family members? Your doctor? You, and/or trusted family members, will want to help make decisions about your care. Depending on the type of care you’re receiving (e.g., nursing care), you may also want to make sure your doctor is included.

Who will provide oversite for your care? How are employees evaluated to ensure they’re providing the appropriate care? How often are they evaluated?

Does the agency have a 24/7 hotline in case you have an urgent question? Things don’t always come up between the hours of 9 a.m. and 5 p.m.

Once you’ve narrowed your search to just a few Kansas City home health agencies, ask for references, and contact each reference directly.

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