Check Out an Agency's Hiring Criteria

When choosing a private duty agency it's important to find out what the company's hiring criteria are.  Of course there should be a complete application which contains a verifiable work history that demonstrates at least one year of experience under supervision.  In addition the company should require a minimum of three professional references, preferably from supervisors.  All employees should be required to be current in C.P.R, and have proof that they have had a T.B. test or chest x-ray within the past year.  The agency should require a skills inventory or competency test for their applicants requiring a minimum score of 75%.

In addition copies of drivers licenses, social security cards and C.P.R. certification should be included in the application.  Although the law now requires employees working with the elderly in nursing homes or hospitals must obtain a finger print card.  If the employee hasn't worked in a facility like that, the agency should run a criminal background check.  In addition, all employees should be required to have  a drug screening.

One of the biggest challenges agencies face is making the proper match between the employee and the patient.  This can only be accomplished when the agency invests time in the applicant, actually finding out about them personally and making a judgement about their character and personality.