Clients of HomeCare Options have the right to:
- Receive considerate and respectful care in the home at all times, and have property treated with respect.
- Participate in the development of the plan of care, and receive an explanation of any services proposed, changes in service, and alternative services that may be available.
- Receive complete written information on the plan of care, including the name of the home health aide and the supervisor responsible for the services and the agency phone number.
- Refuse medication and treatment, counseling, or other services without fear of reprisal or discrimination.
- Be fully informed of the consequences of all aspects of care, unless medically contraindicated, including the possible results of refusal of medical treatment, counseling or other services.
- Privacy and confidentiality about one’s health, social and financial circumstances and about what takes place in the home.
- Know that all communications and records will be treated confidentially and that no information will be given out without a written release from the client or family.
- Expect that all home care personnel, within the limits set by the plan of care, will respond in good faith to the client’s requests for assistance in the home.
- Receive information on the agency’s policies and procedures including information on charges, qualifications and supervision of personnel, hours of operation, and discontinuation of service; request a change of caregiver.
- Participate in the plan for discontinuation of service with the right to appeal.
- Have access to all bills for service regardless of whether they are paid for out-of-pocket or through other sources of payment.
- Receive regular nursing supervision of the homemaker-home health aide if medically-related personal care is needed.
- Receive a clear explanation of which services and equipment provided by the agency are covered by third-party reimbursement and which services and equipment will be paid for by the client and of the charges which will be incurred.
- Receive a clear explanation of the process to voice grievances about care, treatment, or discontinuation of service without fear of discrimination or reprisal for doing so.
- Appeal agency decisions regarding care, following grievance procedures.
- Know the agency maintains liability insurance coverage; and be given in writing the name and telephone number of a contact person for 24 hour access to the agency.
- Be given written information concerning the agency’s policy on advance directives.
- Access to an interpreter if needed.
- Choose their provider of services and be informed of that right
- Call the State Department of Health HOTLINE at 1-800-792-9770
- Write the accrediting body; the National Association for Home Care Accreditation Program 228 Seventh St., SE, Washington, D.C. 20003
Clients of HomeCare Options have the responsibility to:
- Notify the agency of changes in their condition or care situation (hospitalization, symptoms, etc.).
- Follow the plan of care.
- Notify the agency if the visit schedule needs to be changed.
- Keep appointments and notify the agency if unable to do so.
- Inform the agency of the existence of, and any changes to, advance directives.
- Advise the agency of any problems or dissatisfaction with the service.
- Provide a safe environment for care to be provided.
- Carry out mutually agreed responsibilities.