2 organizations accredit home care agencies

Home Care by David DiFilippo

    Q: What accreditation should I look for when hiring a home care company? ~ K. Smith, Newport

    A: The Community Health Accreditation Program (CHAP) and the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Health Care Organizations (JCAHO) are two credible accreditations for home care companies. In order to achieve accreditation from either organization, agencies must comply with several quality standards aimed at improving health care for the public.
    Q: Does hospice provide care 24/7? ~ Janice Reading, Cumberland
    A: In the early stages of care, it's usually not necessary for someone to be with the patient all the time but hospice is on call around the clock. Hospice does not include a nurse in the home 24 hours a day, but a home care agency can provide that service for you and in-patient facilities are available if necessary.
    Q: My mother has Alzheimer's disease and is deteriorating rapidly. Her wish was to remain at home, but I'm concerned about safety issues. I hate the thought of making her leave her home, but I am not sure if having her stay there is an option. We are financially able to do whatever is best for her. ~ Dee Knight, Warwick
    A: An assessment of your mother and her home by a registered nurse will provide you with the answers to many of your questions. Some home health agencies provide free in-home assessments and consultations. Many people with Alzheimer's live safely at home with in-home help, while others, particularly those who wander, may need a secured environment. If the nurse deems your mother to be OK to stay at home, many home care agencies have staff that specialize in the treatment of Alzheimer's and dementia.

    David DiFilippo is the owner of Concord Home Health Services, which specializes in in-home personal assistance such as errands and medication management, as well as skilled nursing services and rehabilitation. Submit questions to kparkcompass@trmcomm.com.

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