Choosing A Provider

Choosing a care provider for yourself or a loved one can often times be a difficult and confusing task. There are certain things you will need to consider. Not all care providers have the same standards of care, staff training or screening process. It is important to know the right questions to ask to ensure the safety and comfort of all persons involved.

All employees of Northern Management must pass a criminal background check that includes FBI fingerprinting. If you have had any misdemeanors in the last 3-5 years you are not eligible or any felonies in the last 5-10 years. All employees must have a valid driver's license, valid means less than three moving citations in the last three years and larger violations may take longer to clear.

Questions to ask when choosing a provider

The Company

• How long have you been providing services?
• What services do you provide? Can I get housekeeping, medications and transportation all from one company?
• If I need transportation, what are my options?
• Does the company charge the same rate on days, nights, weekends and holidays?
• Can I terminate the service without having to give notice?
• Do you give a discounted hourly rate for schedules of 8 hours a day or more?
• Can I reach office staff 24 hours a day, 7 days a week?
• Does your agency carry full professional liability insurance?
• Can families contact existing clients for a reference?
• Can families interview the Aide prior to hiring and at no cost?
• Will your agency conduct a needs assessment at no cost?
• Do you provide "live-in" as well as "live-out" services?

The Staff

• Is a criminal background check completed on all your employees?
• If doing transporting, does the staff have a valid driver's license and car insurance?
• Are your Aides CPR and First aid trained?
• Are your Aides trained to assist me with my medications?
• Are your Aides trained to perform "personal care"?
• Do your Aides do full housekeeping, including mopping and laundry?
• Are your Aides covered by worker's compensation insurance?
• Are all your Aides bonded?
• What if I don't like the staff person or there is a problem with their work?
• What if my staff doesn't show up to work?