How to Choose a Provider

Choosing a nursing or assisted living center can be overwhelming but asking the right questions will help you make an informed decision. Here is a list of questions to ask when evaluating nursing or assisted living centers.

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“The therapists and aides are among the best in the world. Friendly, cooperative, and they listen to the patient. They did not push beyond the limits. These things are very important to both the patient and the families.”
– D.T., family member, Pickaway Manor

Basic Information
• How long has the center been open?
• Who owns the center?
• What levels of care do you provide?
• What were the results of your last state survey?

 

Admissions
• Are admissions accepted 7-days per week?
• Do you have rooms available or is there a waiting list?
• What medical information is required prior to admission?
• How do you admit someone to the center?
• Does the center have a variety of room accommodations?
• Does my loved one have a choice of rooms and roommates?
• Am I allowed to bring furnishings from home?

 

Financial Information
• What are the current room rates?
• What services and amenities are included in the daily room rate?
• Is the center Medicare and Medicaid certified?
• Does the center accept private insurance?
• Does the center require a security deposit or advance payment?
• When can I expect to receive a bill for services?

 

Meal Service & Dining
• Are all meals included in the daily room rate?
• Do you have selective menus or alternate meal selections available?
• May I bring food from home if my loved one requests?
• May I keep food or snacks in the room?
• Can guests eat meals?
• Is a dietitian on staff at the center?

 

Staffing
• What is the staff to resident ratio on each shift?
• What are the qualifications of your staff members?
• Who is your Medical Director?
• Can my personal physician treat me at the center?

 

Therapy Services
• What types of therapy do you provide?
• How often is therapy provided?
• Do you employ your own therapists?

 

Activities & Transportation
• What types of activities are available?
• Are activities available outside the center?
• Do you provide transportation or assist in arranging transportation services?

 

Visiting
• When are visiting hours?
• Are family, friends, children, and pets allowed to visit?
• Are pets permitted to live at the center?

 

Amenities
• Is private telephone service and cable television available in all rooms?
• Is there a separate charge for private telephone and cable services?
• Do I have to bring my own telephone and television from home?
• Does the center have a beauty & barber shop?
• Is there a charge for personal laundry services?
• How often will my room be cleaned?
• Do you provide towels & linens?