Finding the home care agency that meets your needs may take some research, but it will be time well spent. You will want to review the quality of their care, whether the services you need are included, staff training and expertise, and your medical coverage of the needed services. Most communities have many providers to choose from. Here are some ways to start your search for names and phone numbers of agencies:

Local resources

Talk with your doctor, social worker, or hospital discharge planner about home care agencies in your area. They usually have worked with home care agencies and know which ones can be counted on to respond best to the needs of their patients. Information and referral services may be offered through your local Area Agency on Aging, the local United Way chapter, the Visiting Nurse Association, or your local American Cancer Society. Your place of worship may also have information. Ask friends in your area about any home health care agencies they have used or heard about. You may also check your local yellow pages under "home care," "home health care," and "nurses."

State resources

Contact your state's department of health or social services to get a list of licensed agencies. If you are looking for a Medicare-certified agency, call Medicare (in the "Additional resources" section below) or check the blue pages of your phone book for your county or state health department.

National resources

The National Association for Home Care & Hospice has a state-by-state database of phone numbers for state organizations that keep directories of home care and hospice agencies. The Joint Commission also has information on accredited home care agencies. See the "Additional resources" section for contact information on these groups.

Last Medical Review: 05/19/2009
Last Revised: 05/19/2009