Frequently Asked Questions

Question 1

What services does Care-on-Call provide?

Accepted Answer

Care-on-Call provides non-medical in-home care services including personal care (bathing, grooming, dressing), companionship, meal preparation, light housekeeping, medication reminders, transportation and errands, and specialized care for clients with Alzheimer's, dementia, Parkinson's, and other conditions.

Question 2

What is the difference between non-medical home care and medical home health?

Accepted Answer

Non-medical home care, like the services Care-on-Call provides, focuses on assistance with daily living activities, companionship, and personal care. Medical home health involves skilled nursing, physical therapy, or other clinical services ordered by a physician. Care-on-Call does not provide clinical or nursing services.

Question 3

Who can receive Care-on-Call services?

Accepted Answer

Our services are available to seniors, adults recovering from illness or surgery, and individuals with disabilities or chronic conditions who need assistance with daily activities in their own home or residence.

Question 4

What areas does Care-on-Call serve?

Accepted Answer

Care on Call currently provides services in San Jose and surrounding cities, San Francisco and surrounding cities, and the Greater Sacramento area. Service availability may vary by location and caregiver availability. Contact us to confirm whether services are available in your area.

Question 5

How do I get started?

Accepted Answer

Getting started is simple. Contact us to schedule a free consultation. We'll learn about your care needs, preferred schedule, and other important considerations, answer your questions, and help determine the right care arrangement for you.

Question 6

How quickly can care services begin?

Accepted Answer

Care can often be arranged quickly depending on your needs, location, caregiver availability, and required schedule. Contact our team to discuss your situation, and we'll guide you through the next steps.

Question 7

What is the minimum visit length?

Accepted Answer

Care-on-Call requires a minimum of four hours per visit. This ensures our caregivers have adequate time to provide quality, attentive care.

Question 8

Do you offer longer or around-the-clock care?

Accepted Answer

Yes. In addition to 4-hour visits, we offer 8-hour and 12-hour shifts as well as 24-hour around-the-clock care for clients who need continuous support.

Question 9

Can care be tailored to my specific needs?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. We work with each client and their family to develop a personalized care plan that reflects individual preferences, routines, and health needs. Care plans can be updated as needs change.

Question 10

How are caregivers/PCA selected?

Accepted Answer

Care on Call carefully screens caregivers before they are referred to clients. We also consider each client's care needs, schedule, preferences, and personality to help create a compatible caregiver match.

Question 11

Can I choose or change my caregiver?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We believe a comfortable caregiver-client relationship is an important part of quality care. Clients may participate in the caregiver selection process and request a different caregiver when needed.

Question 12

Will I have a consistent caregiver?

Accepted Answer

We strive to match each client with a consistent caregiver to build trust and familiarity. In the event your regular caregiver is unavailable, we will arrange a qualified temporary replacement and notify you in advance.

Question 13

How does Care-on-Call support family members?

Accepted Answer

We keep family members informed and involved in the care process. Our team is available to answer questions, provide updates, and coordinate care so families have peace of mind.

Question 14

Are your caregivers licensed, bonded, and background-checked?

Accepted Answer

Care on Call is a California-licensed Home Care Organization regulated by the California Department of Social Services (CDSS).

Our Personal Assistants/Home Care Aides are registered with the State of California and undergo fingerprint-based Live Scan criminal background screening as required by CDSS. They also complete required health clearances, including TB screening, as well as Care on Call's training and orientation requirements before being assigned to clients.

Care on Call maintains the required insurance and bonding protections applicable to licensed Home Care Organizations, providing families with an added level of accountability and peace of mind.

Question 15

How much does home care cost, and what payment options do you accept?

Accepted Answer

The cost of care depends on the type of assistance needed, schedule, and number of hours of service. Contact us for a personalized assessment and current rates. Our team can also discuss available payment options and funding programs that may apply.

Question 16

How can I contact Care-on-Call?

Accepted Answer

You can reach us by phone at +1.408.857.1872 (San Jose) or +1.916.639.4601 (Sacramento), by email at info@careoncall.org, or through the contact form on our Contact page.

Question 17

How do I apply for a caregiver position?

Accepted Answer

We are always looking for compassionate caregivers to join our team. Visit our Open Positions page to view current openings and apply.

Question 18

Do you accept Medi-Cal, Medicare, or IHSS?

Accepted Answer

Care On Call primarily provides private-pay, non-medical home care services. At this time, we do not bill Medicare, Medi-Cal, or IHSS directly for our standard home care services.

We do accept eligible Long-Term Care Insurance and VA Aid & Attendance benefits. We can also provide detailed invoices and supporting documentation for clients seeking reimbursement through their insurance or benefit programs.

Please contact our office to discuss your coverage or funding source, as eligibility and reimbursement options may vary.