When choosing a home care agency, consider the following questions:

How long has the agency been in business?

La Jolla Nurses Homecare is the oldest private duty home health agency in San Diego.  Brittnei Salerno’s mother founded La Jolla Nurses in 1977.  She is involved in the day to day operations and understands the needs of the people we care for.

What areas does this agency serve?

La Jolla Nurses Homecare serves all of San Diego County.  In certain circumstances, we can help in other cities as well!  Most of our clients reside in San Diego. We are happy to accommodate you wherever you may need us.

Is the agency licensed by the State of California?

La Jolla Nurses Homecare is licensed by the State California and is called a State Licensed Home Health Agency, licensed to provide skilled nursing care as well as personal care aides.

How does the agency select employees?

Our staff/personnel department is very experienced in hiring and has many years of hiring experience at La Jolla Nurses Homecare.  There are many procedures that go into our hiring process and also many years of experience in identifying high quality caregivers. Our process starts with an in-person interview and proceeds through numerous steps including checking past references, license/certification, ensuring a clear criminal background is obtained, written skills testing as well as a hands on demonstration of competencies.  CPR testing, TB clearance and the physical ability to perform duties are also mandatory in our hiring process.

How do they test knowledge and skills?  Are background and reference checks done?

We have an extensive process to ensure we hire only the most skilled, knowledgeable and caring employees who appreciate being able to work with clients on a one-to-one basis.  All applicants follow these steps:

-       Undergo TB test, drug test, current drivers license info, insurance card and CPR certification.

-       Demonstrate knowledge and skills through extensive testing both written and hands on.

-       Thorough background checks: criminal records, previous employer references, DMV, credit fraud.

-       An in-depth orientation is conducted to maintain our high quality of care.

-       Finally, the last test, we ask ourselves, “Would we send this person out to take care of our own family member?”

Who is considered the employer?  Who pays state and federal taxes?  Who is responsible for Worker’s Compensation if there is an on-job accident?  Who is responsible for Unemployment and Disability claims? 

La Jolla Nurses Homecare is the employer and will pay all state and federal payroll taxes.  In addition, we are responsible for Worker’s Compensation, State Disability and Unemployment claims.

Does the agency insure and bond employees?

All La Jolla Nurses Homecare employees are insured and fidelity bonded.

Does the agency take long term care insurance?

 La Jolla Nurses Homecare would be happy to help you call your long term insurance company and get questions answered regarding coverage amounts.

What are the agency’s office hours?

La Jolla Nurses Homecare is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.  You will always speak to a staff person on call.  La Jolla Nurses Homecare employees will always be there to assist you with home care needs.

Does the agency require you to make a commitment?  Does the agency require you to sign a contract?

With La Jolla Nurses Homecare, there is no required commitment or contract.  We do have you sign a Client Agreement, which specifies needs, confirms rates quoted and cancellation policies.

What happens if you do not like the caregiver or nurse?

La Jolla Nurses Homecare will replace a caregiver/nurse if your expectations are not met.