The screening process for caregivers is a critical component of any reputable home care agency. For families considering in-home care, understanding the details of this process can provide much-needed peace of mind. Visiting Angels has established a rigorous multi-tier system to vet its caregivers, which often exceeds minimum state-mandated requirements. Their approach goes beyond basic criminal checks to include professional and personal references, multiple interviews, and skill assessments.
Visiting Angels' Caregiver Screening: A Multi-Layered Approach
Visiting Angels' vetting process is designed to thoroughly evaluate potential caregivers before they are ever placed with a client. While exact procedures can vary slightly by location due to local regulations, the fundamental framework is consistent across the franchise network.
Comprehensive Background Checks
A critical element of the vetting process is the extensive background check. As locally owned and operated franchises, many Visiting Angels offices perform screenings that are more comprehensive than state mandates. For example, some locations conduct lifetime background checks that search federal, state, national, and multi-county criminal databases. This level of detail is particularly important for vulnerable seniors. The checks also typically include validation of a social security number, a review of motor vehicle records, and a check of sex offender registries. This broad approach ensures that the hiring office gets a holistic view of a candidate's history.
Intensive Interviewing Process
Unlike many services that rely on a single interview, many Visiting Angels franchises utilize a multi-interview process to assess a candidate's suitability. In some cases, candidates undergo up to three separate interviews. These interviews progressively delve deeper into the candidate's experience, skills, and personal character. Interviewers look for qualities such as compassion, integrity, and empathy—traits that are essential for providing high-quality senior care. This repeated evaluation helps ensure that the candidate is not only qualified but also possesses the right demeanor for the job.
Verifying Experience and References
Past performance is often the best indicator of future success. Visiting Angels typically requires candidates to have prior caregiving experience and excellent references. Many franchises will contact multiple professional and personal references to verify a candidate's employment history, skills, and character. In addition, many locations verify relevant certifications, such as Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) or Home Health Aide (HHA), to ensure candidates meet professional standards.
Drug Screening and Ongoing Monitoring
Drug screening is a standard part of the pre-employment process at many Visiting Angels franchises, with some offices also conducting random drug tests throughout employment. In addition to the initial screening, Visiting Angels agencies use a system of continuous monitoring to ensure caregivers maintain high standards. This can include unannounced check-in visits by a care coordinator and regular communication with the client and family. Caregivers are also bonded and insured, which adds an extra layer of protection for clients.
Agency Caregiver vs. Private Hire: Vetting Comparison
When choosing a caregiver, families often weigh the option of using an agency like Visiting Angels versus hiring a private individual. The level of vetting is a key difference.
| Feature | Visiting Angels (Agency) | Private Hire (Directly by family) |
|---|---|---|
| Screening | Extensive, multi-tiered process including federal, state, and local background checks, multiple interviews, and reference verification. | Vetting is the sole responsibility of the family. The depth and quality of screening are entirely dependent on the family's resources and effort. |
| Employment Status | Caregivers are W2 employees of the local agency. The agency handles payroll, taxes, insurance, and liability. | The family becomes the employer and is responsible for payroll, withholding taxes (federal and state), unemployment insurance, and worker's compensation. |
| Liability Coverage | Agency provides professional liability, general liability, and worker's compensation insurance, protecting the client and family from legal and financial risks. | The family assumes all liability. In the event of an injury or accident, the family could be held financially responsible. |
| Training | Caregivers receive required and often extensive ongoing training, including specialized instruction for conditions like dementia. | Training for a private caregiver is usually the responsibility of the family, and may be limited to what the caregiver already knows. |
| Back-up Care | In case a caregiver is unavailable due to illness or personal reasons, the agency provides a replacement to ensure continuity of care. | The family must manage all scheduling and find alternative care if their hired caregiver is unable to work. |
| Monitoring | Case managers and supervisors perform quality assurance checks, including periodic unannounced home visits and regular communication. | Ongoing supervision is managed entirely by the family, who may lack the expertise or time to effectively monitor care quality. |
The “Select Your Caregiver” Program
One feature that sets some Visiting Angels franchises apart is the "Select Your Caregiver" program. After the agency conducts its full vetting process, they present the family with qualified candidates who they believe are a good fit based on the care plan and personality assessment. This allows the client and family to meet with and interview the potential caregivers personally, giving them the final say in who enters their home. This combination of rigorous agency vetting and personal choice empowers families to find the best possible match, fostering trust and rapport.
Conclusion: A Trustworthy Vetting System
In summary, the answer to the question "Are Visiting Angels vetted?" is a definitive yes, based on their documented hiring practices and franchise policies. Their screening goes well beyond the minimum requirements, combining extensive background checks with multiple interviews, skill verification, and ongoing monitoring. For families concerned with the safety and well-being of their loved ones, the agency's multi-layered vetting process, combined with its "Select Your Caregiver" option, offers a strong foundation for trust and peace of mind.
However, it is important for families to remember that Visiting Angels operates as a franchise system. While national standards are in place, the specific execution and stringency can be influenced by the local ownership and management. Therefore, it is always recommended that families discuss the specific vetting policies with their local Visiting Angels office to fully understand the procedures in their area.
Ultimately, choosing a caregiver is a deeply personal decision, and confidence in the agency's vetting process is a crucial first step toward building a successful and lasting care relationship. The detailed approach taken by Visiting Angels aims to deliver that confidence from the very beginning.
