We know finding home care Rhode Island patients can feel secure about is an invaluable piece of the puzzle. MAS Home Care takes pride in knowing that the caregivers sent to your home are reputable individuals that you will look forward to seeing time and time again. As part of the employment process, our Rhode Island caregivers must have AT LEAST six months of experience, excellent references, a clear criminal background check, clean driving record, be up to date with their TB vaccinations, sign a patient confidentiality agreement, have an on-site interview, and complete an orientation… just to start!

Although MAS has done all the leg work to ensure anyone coming into your home is trustworthy and going to meet your needs, consumers should feel empowered in the health care choices they make. Ask your own questions and do your research before jumping into any home care situation. Before hiring a home care agency, get your information straight by starting with these 10 questions:

1. How long has the agency been proving home care?
2. What recruiting methods does the agency use?
3. What are their hiring requirements for prospective employees?
4. What screenings are performed on caregivers before they are hired? Criminal background check — federal or state? Drug screening?
5. How does the agency assess a caregiver’s performance? Does the agency provide a supervisor to evaluate the quality of home care on a regular basis? How frequently?
6. Does the agency train caregivers? What does that training entail? Are they knowledgeable about elderly health conditions and certified in CPR?
7. Is the agency consistent about sending the same caregiver to the home?
8. What is the policy on providing a substitute caregiver if the regular caregiver is not available?
9. If you are not satisfied with a particular caregiver, will the agency provide a different person?
10. Does the agency provide a written document that states the rights and responsibilities of the client, and explains the company’s privacy policy and code of ethics?

MAS Home Care provides home care to residents in Maine, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island.