What’s the Difference? Home Health Care Agencies vs. Nurse Registries
Finding a highly competent and compassionate nurse to care for your loved one is critical. So when it’s time to find an experienced, reliable nurse or nursing assistant for home health care in South Florida, who do you contact?
There are different types of businesses that provide nursing staff to care for individuals at home. The two main businesses are Home Health Agencies and Nurse Registries. There are a number of significant differences between Home Health Agencies and Nurse Registries — and it’s important to understand these differences so that you can find the best care for your loved one.
Home Health Agencies are required by Florida law to use “employee” caregivers.
Nurse Registries are not; they use independent contractors. It’s worth noting that the Department of Labor and the Internal Revenue Service are currently examining nurse registries for alleged mis-classification of workers.
These may seem like simple “business” differences. But you will not want to miss how they affect you and your loved one. Read on to understand exactly what you’ll be getting if you work with a Home Health Agency or a Nurse Registry…
These may seem like simple “business” differences. But you will not want to miss how they affect you and your loved one. Read on to understand exactly what you’ll be getting if you work with a Home Health Agency or a Nurse Registry…
Home Health Agencies
Nurse Registries
Carefully select and hire highly qualified nursing staff
YES
Registries do NOT have the same, rigorous hiring process.
Ensure quality work by providing supervisory visits and services to oversee nursing staff
YES
Registries are not required to supervise their caregivers. If requested, they may provide supervision at additional cost.
Provide training and continuing education to nursing staff
YES
Registries do NOT provide training or education.
Protect patients by providing full professional liability, malpractice and auto insurance as well as bond coverage to nursing staff
YES
Nurse Registries do not carry Workers Compensation nor do they carry a blanket of liability or malpractice Insurance. Their workers are not bonded for criminal acts.
Provide fully covered caregiver if backup is absent
YES
Independent contractor is responsible.
Protect patients by managing wage-related taxes and social security for nursing staff
YES
Since registries use independent contractors, THEY DO NOT TAKE OUT TAXES. The patient could be responsible for paying all employees taxes and benefits.
Whether you ultimately choose a Home Health Agency or a Nurse Registry, be sure to ask lots of questions so that you can truly understand the nature of the business as well as the individual nurse who will be caring for your loved one.
Do you have questions about Home Health Care Agencies and Nurse Registries? Expicare can help. Contact us at 561-736-1422, toll-free: 855-730-9895, or visit www.expicare.com.
Expicare Nursing, Inc.
Owned and managed by highly qualified Registered Nurses, Expicare is a recognized leader of home health care in South Florida. For over three decades, Expicare has provided unparalleled home health care to thousands of patients throughout Palm Beach County. From post-surgery assistance to compassionate care for patients and families struggling with Alzheimer’s, Expicare provides highly skilled nurses and home health aides to care for your parents or loved ones. For more information, contact 561-736-1422, toll-free: 855-730-9895, or visit www.expicare.com.