When it Comes to Health Care, It's Your Choice

When it comes to making decisions concerning your health care, make sure your voice is heard!

We make choices daily -- from what to wear each morning to what to eat at each meal. Our ability to choose adds joy and dimension to our life.

This same freedom of choice also exists in the health-care arena. People are free to make personal decisions concerning what doctor to see, what hospital to utilize, where to go for various medical tests, and what home care agency to hire. When it comes to making decisions concerning your health care, make sure your voice is heard!

More and more, we see personal freedoms shrinking. For instance, when was the last time you were asked where you would like your tax dollars spent? Sure, we have elections, but even then, there are no guarantees that the promises candidates make will be implemented following their election. The older we get, we realize this is often the exception to the rule.

Thankfully, there are laws that protect your right to choose health care providers. For instance, if you are not satisfied with the care you are receiving at your doctor's office, you are free to stop seeing that physician. Instead, ask around and select a physician that has established a good reputation, who is responsive to your needs, who sees you in a timely fashion, and who truly listens to your concerns. This rule also holds true for hospitals, nursing home facilities, home health care agencies, and other medical providers.

Hospitals are required by law to provide a list of available home care agencies from which patients may choose. Make sure you receive this list when you or a family member is being discharged from a hospital. Better yet, if you have decided to use Care Corporation, make sure you let the discharge planner know your decision.

According to Elizabeth Petersen, RN, vice president of Operations for Care Corporation, "Patients are often fragile and overwhelmed at the time of their discharge from a hospital. I would suggest discussing with your family members in advance of your hospitalization which home health care agency you would like following your discharge. Hopefully, this will prevent an error from occurring."

"Care Corp remains the leading home health care provider in Geauga County for many reasons. First, Care Corp employs an exceptional team of experienced, registered nurses -- many have worked in hospital emergency rooms and critical care for several years prior to joining our staff. Care Corp also provides a full array of home care and hospice services in addition to skilled nursing care, such as physical, occupational and speech therapy; social worker; and home health aides and companions. People also appreciate that Care Corp is family owned and predominantly hires local residents that share the same family values," explains Petersen.

Jason Baker, vice president of finance and marketing at Care Corp, is passionate about patient choice. "My mother, Shirley Baker, RN, founded this company more than 27 years ago and has worked tirelessly as a patient advocate. I believe part of being a patient advocate is insuring our patients' voices are heard when it comes to health care. We encourage people to exercise their right to choose. Don't let any person or institution ignore you. Demand to be heard!"

Baker suggests patients and their families research home care agencies in advance of a medical emergency. "This will eliminate any pressure or confusion from occurring when home care is required. Care Corp provides free home assessments so patients scheduled for a major surgery may call in advance to set up home visits. Care Corp will conduct a phone consultation to discuss available options and anticipate needs," Baker explains. By planning in advance, patients can enter the hospital knowing what to expect upon their return home.

A general rule of thumb: patients should refer to the home care agency by name and double check to make sure their desire is followed upon discharge from the hospital. Never assume you will get the agency you want!

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