Caregivers

About Referred Caregivers

TenderCare Services is a private duty nurse registry licensed in the State of Florida by the Agency for Health Care Administration. TenderCare Services can refer independent contractor caregivers to clients from 1-24hrs.

How do you screen caregivers?

All caregivers registered with TenderCare Services undergo the following screening processes in accordance with our nurse registry license under Florida Agency for Health Care Administration:

Companion Caregivers:

  • Level II Federal criminal background check through the FBI, comprising of electronic fingerprints and a photograph which is stored in a central clearing house
  • Proof of prior in-home care experience, in the form of two verified work references
  • Current driving license and auto insurance
  • Fitness to work and physical signed by a physician – ensuring the caregiver is free from communicable diseases
  • Proof of HIV/AIDS training
  • Proof of current professional liability insurance
  • Proof of 3-hour certification of Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia training

HHA, CNA, LPN, and RN Caregivers (in addition to the above):

  • Proof of current CPR training
  • Proof of ‘Assistance with the Self Administration of Medication’ training
  • All CNA, LPN, RN licenses and HHA training certificates verified

Many caregivers have also gained additional training and have certification in areas such as Alzheimer’s care, medication assistance, domestic abuse, and other disciplines relating to in-home care. If clients need a caregiver with specific experience or training, TenderCare Services will facilitate caregiver referrals accordingly.

What caregivers are available, and how do they differ?

TenderCare Services can refer clients to the following caregiver classes:

Companions (aka Homemakers) – Companions can assist clients with all hands-off care needs, such as light housekeeping (vacuuming, dusting, mopping, etc.), laundry, meal preparation, transportation, etc. Companions are not permitted (by the Florida Agency for Health Care Administration) to offer any hands-on care; this type of care can only be provided by an HHA, CNA, LPN, or RN.

Home Health Aide (HHA) – HHAs carry certificates with over 40 hours of training. In addition to general housekeeping duties, HHAs are able to perform all aspects of hands-on personal care, including assistance with bathing, toileting, hair, and skincare.

Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) – CNAs train to pass a state exam, which includes both knowledge and practical skill assessments. CNAs must renew their license every two years and take ongoing refresher courses in order to maintain a clear and active license. CNAs are able to assist with the same companion and personal care tasks an HHA can assist with, including bathing, toileting, hair, skincare, and more.

Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) – LPNs are certified and can oversee the tasks provided by HHAs and CNAs. In addition, they can provide skilled nursing care including but not limited to monitoring catheters and IVs and assistance with feeding. LPNs must work under the scope of an attending RN’s license.

Registered Nurse (RN) – RNs operate under their own license and can oversee the tasks performed by HHAs, CNAs, and LPNs. RNs can provide assessments, make a nursing diagnosis, plan and implement care as well being able to evaluate the effectiveness of the care provided. RNs can also provide medication management and wound care services on a per diem (as needed) or ongoing basis.

Can we contact you if we have a problem or question?

Absolutely! TenderCare Services operates a 24-hour on-call service. This phone line is answered immediately by one of our office staff who can assist you, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

What are your rates?

Rates depend on each individual’s specific care needs, level of care, and frequency. Since client rates depend on a number of these factors, we have to discuss rates on an individual basis. We are available 24/7 to discuss your care needs over the phone and to give you an estimate of the cost of the services you require. The typical, average costs of in-home care can be found in the Annual Genworth Survey.

How many hours do I need?

You can secure services from as little as a one bath visit (1 hour) up to 24/7 care. Our management team is very experienced in setting up and managing private home care services, and they will be able to assist you in determining the best schedule to suit both your in-home care needs and financial budget.

Is there a contract?

There is an agreement between TenderCare Services and clients surrounding the terms of service; however, clients are not locked-in to a contract. We understand that life does not always happen as planned, and therefore, we are very flexible to ensure our services always meet your needs.

Are caregivers insured?

All caregivers screened and referred through TenderCare Services hold full professional liability coverage policies covering them for claims up to $500,000.

Do you take private insurance policies?

TenderCare Services can work with many long-term care insurance companies. If you have a long-term insurance policy, please feel free to give us a call to discuss your options.

Do you accept Medicare or Medicaid?

As a private duty nurse registry, TenderCare Services is not licensed to offer Medicare and Medicaid services. TenderCare works closely with several excellent home health agencies who are able to provide those services and would happily make a recommendation.

How can I start receiving care?

Contact us to arrange your free, no-obligation consultation. We are confident that you will be very satisfied with a caregiver referred through TenderCare Services.