Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Below you will find answers to the questions that have been asked of us over the years.

1. What does SCS do to ensure we receive professional care in our home?

SCS employees are carefully screened personally by our coordinator and have an extensive criminal background check and Department of Motor Vehicle verification conducted by a private investigative company at our expense.

2. How is SCS different from other agencies?

First we gather information pertaining to the client's condition, needs and preferences. Second our Director of Nursing does an assessment based on the information given to SCS. Third we identify the 2-3 caregivers best suited for the client. Finally the client interviews the caregivers and makes the final decision on which caregiver is chosen.

3. How are your caregivers prepared to meet the needs of their new client?

As mentioned in #2, the caregiver s introduced to the client and family prior to starting the position. By considering skills, personality, and experience we will match an appropriate caregiver to the person and family. In addition, they will receive an exact copy of the Client's Information Profile that has been completed by the client or the responsible party. In this way the caregiver has the opportunity to review it in detail, and if there are any questions, they will be answered prior to starting services.

We understand and appreciate the relationship which may form; therefore there will not be a different caregiver each day.

4. Are your employees bonded and insured?

Yes.

5. Is Specialty Care Services licensed?

Yes. SCS is licensed by the state of Maryland.

6. Do you conduct criminal background checks?

Yes. We check the last 10 years base upon the applicant's last residence.

7. Who pays the caregiver? Do I pay SCS separately?

SCS are our employees. We take care of payroll, employee/employer taxes, workers compensation and liability insurance. In this way, you are not responsible for reporting employment information to government authorities. This is all taken care of for you. You are billed weekly and we accept most major credit cards and personal checks.

8. Are your services available in assisted living facilities, nursing homes, rehabilitation centers and hospitals?

Yes. Our services are able to be rendered anywhere assistance is needed. Prior authorization must be received at these facilities to be able to start services.

9. Does Medicare for Private Insurance pay for your services?

Medicare covers skilled nursing services, however some private insurance policies cover unskilled nursing services. Please consult your individual insurance policy.

10. How far in advance should we contact SCS prior to starting services?

You may call us at anytime. In some cases we can provide same day services. It is imperative that we assess the needs of the client and/or family to ensure proper care. This allows us to make the best possible match for your needs.

11. What type of services do you offer?

We offer hourly, daily and live-in services.

12. Your office is based in Silver Spring, Maryland. Does that mean you only accept clients in the DC Metro area?

Yes. We offer services in most of Maryland, DC and Northern Virginia.

13. Do you provide short-term respite care for the weekend or vacation relief?

Yes. This is a popular services for our clients.