Frequently Asked Questions
Q. How do you screen your caregivers?
A. Prior to being invited to our office for an interview, applicants are initially screened over the phone for our minimum requirements, which include but are not limited to a good command of the English language, proof of the necessary training, proof of the necessary credentials and work experience. Once invited to our office, each applicant fills an extensive application packet and all documents are verified.
We then conduct a one-on-one, face-to-face interview; verify their training, qualifications, health history, criminal background checks and employment & character references. While interviewing candidates, we assess their communication and inter-personal skills on an individual basis. We look for applicants that possess personal qualities such as respect, integrity, honesty, sound judgment and reflect a sincere desire to care for another person. These values are the foundation of our agency.
Q. Do your caregivers drive? Do they have their own cars?
A. Yes, while some caregivers may not drive, we do have many caregivers that do drive and some with their own cars. Please be sure to request a driver if you need one.
Q. How long must I wait for a caregiver to begin, once I’ve placed my request for service?
A. Often we can begin on the same day; however, giving some advance notice (two or three days) is preferred.
Q. What do I do if I want to make changes in my caregiver’s schedule?
A. We welcome you to keep an open dialog with your caregiver but please communicate schedule changes to the office so that we can verify the caregiver’s availability as well as for book keeping purposes.
Q. What if my caregiver becomes unexpectedly ill or has some emergency and cannot come?
A. We always have caregivers on standby as well as caregivers coming on and off other assignments. We also have a sophisticated, computerized clock-in system that alerts us if a caregiver has not clocked in for their assigned shift. We follow up on all alerts to ensure continuous coverage and upon confirmation that a caregiver is unable to make it to their assignment, we will arrange for a substitute caregiver.
Q. Do you accept long term insurance?
A. Yes, in fact we have established relationships with reputable long term care insurance companies and provide service to their clients. We will be happy to assist you in filing claims.
Q. In case of an emergency or if I call on the weekend, can I speak to a live person?
A. Yes, we have an easy, yet sophisticated communication system that enables you to connect with our on-call person, not an answering service. Just call our regular office number 301-740-8870 and press “0” to be connected.
Q. How does the billing/paying process work?
A. Our caregivers are employees of CarePlus and are paid by us. They are also covered under our insurance and workers compensation. We bill you every two weeks for services and request that we receive funds prior to the end of each billing cycle. Caregivers fill weekly timesheets showing the hours worked and services performed, which they submit to the office as a record of their work.
Q. Can I interview a prospective caregiver?
A. Yes, interviews are encouraged if there is time. There is no charge for interviewing candidates.
