How to Review Home Health Care Contracts

Getting a reliable home health care company can be a challenge. When you or your loved one is in need of quality home health care services having a comprehensive contract is essential. Going over the terms of the contract before signing it is the only way to ensure that you or your loved one will have their care needs met.

Instructions

Difficulty: Challenging

1. Consult with an attorney who specializes in managed care contracts.
2. Determine if the drafted contract is with an agency or an individual. This will let you know who you are dealing with and whether or not several different people will be responsible for you or your loved one's care or just one person.
3. Look for terms that provide measurable outcomes. Words like "high quality" and "affordable" should not be used as these can't be specifically measured.
4. Understand what your responsibilities are as far as reporting of the care giver's taxable income. If you are working with an independent contractor make sure the contractor is responsible for reporting all of their own income to avoid tax issues.
5. Ask for credentials and references as a part of the agreement. Requirements for background checks should also be included.
6. Make sure the duties of the caregiver or agency are specifically listed in the contract. Include all agreed upon items. Don't leave anything to word of mouth.
7. Require that the contract include names of all parties to whom the caregiver or agency is directly responsible. This should also include those who are entitled to reports from the care giver or agency.

Tips & Warnings

• This information should not be used as a substitute for representation by a licensed attorney specializing in managed care, long term care or elder law. Consult with a professional before signing any legal documents.