Looking for a home care service? Want to know what to look out for when you’re selecting a care provider? Then read on to discover what you should bear in mind when you’re looking to put home care provision in place.
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Client at the heart
Perhaps the most important feature of a good home care service is one which puts the client at the heart of everything they do and every decision that’s made. Of utmost importance is giving the care receiver autonomy wherever possible, and as much input into the decisions made about their care as possible.
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Flexible and responsive
Another key characteristic of a good home care service is one which can be completely flexible, tailoring the service they provide to their client’s needs. So, whether it’s assistance with personal care, house work or shopping they require, or more specialised medical or palliative support, a home care provider should be able to meet their specific needs. Moving forward, home care providers should demonstrate the ability to adapt their service provision to the changing needs, circumstances and preferences of their client.
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High standards
Another crucial element is the quality of care, which must, of course, be of the highest standard so that their client receives an exceptional service. It goes without saying that home carers must abide by all industry standards and have the opportunity for continued professional development so that they are always updating their skills.
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Continual improvement
A good home care service will always be looking at ways in which they can improve the service they offer their clients. Service providers should conduct regular internal and external audits; and conduct spot checks on their services, to ensure their service provision is as it should be and to identify any areas for improvement. Care providers should also demonstrate a commitment to training their staff in crucial areas such as manual handling, infection control, health and safety at work, to name but a few.
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Embrace change and innovation
In keeping with their commitment to continual improvement, private home care providers must keep abreast of the latest industry thinking, and adapt their services to take account of changes in industry standards and guidelines. In addition, service providers should also be looking at ways in which they can embrace advances in technology to improve their care provision.
Your home care provider
So there you have an overview of what to look out for when seeking home care provision for yourself or a loved one. Crucial is to find a provider who offers the highest standards of care and tailors that care to the needs of their client. You need a care home provider who will put their client’s best interests at the heart of everything they do and respond to their changing needs over time – providing a skilled, flexible, and professional home care service at all times. If you’re looking for a first class recruiter in the domiciliary and residential care sectors, then contact a company such as Employ Social Care today.
There you have it – five of the most important features from a good care home service.