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Monday, February 06, 2012
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| Q1: | Home Care FAQs: | | Q2: | Home Healthcare/Private Duty Nursing FAQs: | | Q3: | Nurse and other Medical Professionals Staffing FAQs: | | Q4: | Traveling Nurse FAQs: | | Q5: | Physician Services: | | | | | | Q1: | Home Care FAQs: | | A1: |
In making any decision regarding yours or a loved one’s care, you must weigh all the options to decide on the best care plan possible. While it can be seen as a daunting task, Mastercare strives to put you at ease by helping to relieve the burden with our wide range of services. We understand that everyone is different, thus each care plan is carefully crafted with the care recipient’s best interests in mind.
What makes Mastercare different from all the other Home Care Services?
At Mastercare, all of our employees, both medical and non-medical, have made a commitment to dedicate themselves to providing exceptional customer service and the highest quality of Home and Health care. We are here for you and your family.
What exactly is Home Care?
Home care refers to the general health and non-medical care needs of the recipient in their own home. These services can be used in many different cases including: for people with disabilities, recovering from illness or injury, or facing terminal illnesses. Mastercare’s home care staff are available for medical, nursing, and therapy assistance as well as assistance with many day-to-day social or household activities. For a list of examples, please
click here.
How quickly can services be provided?
In most cases, full services can go into effect within 48 hours. However, depending on the case at hand and the staff availability, services may be able to be provided same day.
When are Home care services needed?
Home care services are needed when an individual’s care needs go beyond the abilities of family and friends; and when the comforts of home are chosen over the costly hospital stay.
With the growing population of the elderly in America, more and more families and individuals are seeking Home Care service professionals to help in assistance of daily tasks. These are the tasks that allow independent living to be a possibility. Some of these tasks include bathing, grooming, dressing, food preparation, and light housework and maintenance.
Another important choice one can be faced with is the length of time needed for services. Our professionals are available for any time commitment necessary to maintain the patient’s health status, whether a few hours a week or permanent long-term care. We are here for you when you need us.
How are the services paid for?
There are different answers to this question which should be discussed when deciding if Home Care is the right option for you or your loved one. In some instances, insurance will cover a portion of the cost. However, depending on the insurance, the individual or family may be responsible for the entire bill.
This will all be discussed in your initial meeting with Mastercare. Insurance benefits vary from company to company so it is in your best interest to contact a representative at your insurance company to ensure that the policy and benefits are understood. Mastercare may be able to provide assistance in determining the benefits available and the patient’s financial responsibility.
Comparative to other care options, how does this rank financially?
In this economy, we are all ever mindful of how we spend our hard-earned dollars. While there are a few options to explore, the home healthcare option tends to be the most cost efficient. Assisted living facilities and nursing homes often cost about double the cost of Home care.
Will there be a set schedule or is there flexibility in scheduling?
At Mastercare, we understand that life happens. We want to make your experience with us as easy and stress free as possible. Depending on the case requirements, we can easily make changes to your schedule with as little as a week’s notice.
What types of background checks / verification checks does Mastercare perform on its staff members?
- Current Education verification
- License Verification
- Criminal and Background check
- Agency bonded & insured
Do I have a say in my caregiver/professional or will the case just be matched with needs and skills?
You will always have a choice! Once we have identified your needs and matched your case with a caregiver/professional with similar skills, a meeting will be arranged. If you approve of the selected caregiver/professional, then your schedule will be set up, if not, we will find another qualified caregiver/professional for you to meet.
What happens if the professional does not show up on time or becomes inconsistent with scheduling?
At Mastercare, we take our staffing responsibilities extremely seriously. Your medical care and well-being depends on our services. If one of our professionals is late (without proper notice or without circumstances beyond their control) we will take the measures to ensure that this will not happen again. A new professional may be temporarily assigned to the case until a permanent match can be set up for you or your loved one.
What is to be expected of me?
To ensure that all needs are met with our services, here are a few pointers to assist our caregivers/professionals:
- Give them a tour of the home.
- Explain where all exits and bathrooms are.
- Tell the caregiver/professional of any known recipient allergies and any other helpful information.
- Show the caregiver/professional where the medication is kept, correct dosage, and if it needs to be out of recipient’s reach
- Have all medical information in a communication folder for the caregiver/professional (must include physicians’ contact information as well as emergency contact information.)
| | [Back to Top] | | Q2: | Home Healthcare/Private Duty Nursing FAQs: | | A2: |
Home Healthcare or Private Duty Nursing is a great way for you or your loved one to receive the best quality medical treatment at home. Whether you are recuperating from injury or illness or suffer a debilitating disease, we can be there to help. We are a dedicated non-medical and medical professional staffing agency that can place professionals in your home to assist you. Along with your attending physician, we will create and implement a Care Plan tailored to your specific needs.
What makes Mastercare different from all the others?
At Mastercare, all of our employees, both medical and non-medical, have made a commitment to dedicate themselves to providing exceptional customer service and the highest quality of Home and Health care. We are here for you and your family.
What is Home Healthcare?
Home Healthcare services are medical services that can be provided in the comfort of the patient’s home instead of at a healthcare facility, like a hospital or clinic. It allows the patient to feel at ease, thus yielding exceptional results.
How do I know Home Healthcare is the best option?
It has been proven that Home Healthcare is the most cost efficient alternative to inpatient care. It is clinically effective and patients are able to relax in the comforts of their own homes. The patient will be with a professional staff member for scheduled one-on-one care leaving the busy, impersonal hospital atmosphere. It is also shown to increase positive outcomes for the patients and the family members alike.
How quickly can services be provided?
In most cases, full services can go into effect within 48 hours. However, depending on the case at hand and the staff availability, services may be able to be provided same day.
What kinds of Healthcare professionals does Mastercare hire/represent?
Mastercare hires only the highest quality of trained professionals in the following areas:
- Homemakers /Companions (“Caregivers”)
- Home Health Aids
- Certified Nursing Assistants (CAN)
- Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) / Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN)
- Registered Nurse (RN)
- Therapists
- Physicians
What happens if the professional does not show up on time or becomes inconsistent with scheduling?
At Mastercare, we take our staffing responsibilities extremely seriously. Your medical care and well-being depends on our services. If one of our professionals is late (without proper notice or without circumstances beyond their control) we will take the measures to ensure that this will not happen again. A new professional may be temporarily assigned to the case until a permanent match can be set up for you or your loved one.
What types of background checks / verification checks does Mastercare perform on its staff members?
- Current Education verification
- License Verification
- Criminal and Background check
- Agency bonded & insured
When are Home Healthcare services needed?
These services are needed when an individual’s medical needs cannot be met at the hands of family and friends and when the comforts of home are chosen over the costly hospital stay. Our professionals are available for any time commitment necessary to maintain the patient’s health status, whether a few hours a week or permanent long time care. There are many services that are available under the Home Healthcare umbrella (for a complete list click here). The provided services are those which require medical certification or licensure.
How are the services paid for?
There are different answers to this question which should be discussed when deciding if Home Care is the right option for you or your loved one. In some instances, insurance will cover a portion of the cost. However, depending on the insurance, the individual or family may be responsible for the entire bill.
This will all be discussed in your initial meeting with Mastercare. Insurance benefits vary from company to company so it is in your best interest to contact a representative at your insurance company to ensure that the policy and benefits are understood. Mastercare may be able to provide assistance in determining the benefits available and the patient’s financial responsibility.
Will there be a set schedule or is there flexibility in scheduling?
At Mastercare, we understand that life happens. We want to make your experience with us as easy and stress free as possible. Depending on the case requirements, we can easily make changes to your schedule with as little as a week’s notice.
Who chooses which services will be provided?
We are here for you, to meet your needs. While we do promise to provide all the services we have listed, we may be able to help even more. If you do not see something on the list, please let us know and we will do our best to accommodate all of your Home Healthcare needs. Also the provided services will be according to the Care Plan that was created with the assistance of the attending physician.
Do I have a say in my professional or will the case just be matched with needs and skills?
You will always have a choice! Once we have identified your needs and matched your case with a professional with similar skills, a meeting will be arranged. If you approve of the selected professional, then your schedule will be set up, if not, we will find another qualified professional for you to meet.
What happens if the professional does not show up on time or becomes inconsistent with scheduling?
At Mastercare we take out staffing responsibilities extremely seriously. Your medical care depends on our services. If one of our professionals is late (without proper notice or without circumstances beyond their control) we will take the measures to ensure that this will not happen again. A new professional may be temporarily assigned to the case until a permanent match can be set up for you or your loved one.
What is to be expected of me?
To ensure that all needs are met with our services, here are a few pointers to assist our caregivers/professionals:
- Give them a tour of the home.
- Explain where all exits and bathrooms are.
- Tell the caregiver/professional of any known recipient allergies and any other helpful information.
- Show the caregiver/professional where the medication is kept, correct dosage, and if it needs to be out of recipient’s reach
- Have all medical information in a communication folder for the caregiver/professional (must include physicians’ contact information as well as emergency contact information.)
| | [Back to Top] | | Q3: | Nurse and other Medical Professionals Staffing FAQs: | | A3: |
Mastercare is ready to handle all of your staffing needs. We have a wide variety of healthcare professionals ready and willing to work with you! With these professionals come many different specialties throughout the healthcare industry. Our nurse staffing program will help you to keep costs down while being able to prepare for staffing changes and meet your everyday needs.
What makes Mastercare different from all the others?
At Mastercare, all of our employees, both medical and non-medical, have made a commitment to dedicate themselves to customer service and the utmost quality of Healthcare. We are here for you.
What kinds of nurses do you have available for staffing?
To suit all of your staffing needs, Mastercare has the following nursing professionals available:
- Certified Nursing Assistants (CNA)
- Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) / Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN)
- Registered Nurse (RN)
What time increments do our services come in?
We understand that your needs can change at a moment’s notice. We are your reliable back up plan. We offer services in all time increments:
- Temporary Assignments
- Temporary to Direct placement
- Contract Assignments
- Permanent Placement
- Travel Assignments
What types of medical facilities do we staff?
- Hospitals
- Clinics
- Long Term Care Centers
- Emergency Rooms
- Schools
- Prisons
How quickly can services be provided?
In most cases, full services can go into effect within 48 hours. However, depending on the case at hand and the staff availability, services may be able to be provided same day.
What happens if the professional does not show up on time or becomes inconsistent with scheduling?
At Mastercare we take out staffing responsibilities extremely seriously. Your business depends on our services. If one of our professionals is late (without proper notice or without circumstances beyond their control) we will take the measures to ensure that this will not happen again. A new professional may be temporarily assigned to the case until a permanent match can be set up.
What types of background checks / verification checks does Mastercare perform on its staff members?
- Current Education verification
- License Verification
- Criminal and Background check
- Agency bonded & insured
| | [Back to Top] | | Q4: | Traveling Nurse FAQs: | | A4: |
What training, degrees, and documentation does Mastercare require of Traveling Nurses?
To enter into Mastercare’s Traveling Nurse Program, you must have
- Graduated from an accredited nursing program in the United States
- Provide proof of graduation with a license or the proper certification
- Provide proof of the right to work in the United States.
Does Mastercare have a minimum experience requirement for the traveling positions?
Normally a minimum of 18 months experience before beginning travel work is expected.
What qualities does Mastercare look for in a Traveling Nurse?
When selecting candidates, it is our policy to look for a few personality traits when interviewing. Candidate must be able to maintain a flexible, easy going lifestyle with excellent clinical skills, as this position entails moving and quick acclamation in the new settings.
How/why will this benefit me?
In addition to having the opportunity to see new and exciting places, this will look great on any resume! It shows your dedication to nursing and the flexibility with which you are willing to work. It is an appreciated profession that many are unable to do. When applying for a more permanent position, this can only strengthen your chances!
What is important when looking for a Traveling Nurse position?
There are many things that you should consider when looking for a position. The most important thing that you need to do is choose the company that will best suit your needs. It is important to remember that every company will be run a little differently and every company may not offer the same benefits and incentives. Also factored in to your decision should be the length of the company’s typical assignments and the pay rate. Again, all companies are operated differently; it is in your best interest to do your homework to find a company that would be the best fit, for you and the company.
How are “assignments” given? Do I have a choice?
Assignments are given based on the details that were discussed with the recruiter. You are in control of your future! In the interviews with the recruiter, you will be able to discuss all of the important aspects of your assignments from location, facility, and clinical setting and any other details that are important to you.
How far do/can I go?
The amazing thing about traveling nursing is that you can go as far away as YOU want! With that said, you can also stay as close as you want depending on the availability of assignments.
When will I be able to accept my first assignment?
This is another aspect that is entirely up to you. It’s another great perk in traveling. Once the application is received, processed and all background information/degrees and certificates have been confirmed, you can be presented to facilities as a possible candidate right away. However, if you feel that you need a little more time to start, that is perfectly fine as well.
Will I need to be licensed in each state that I will be working in?
As you know, every state has different or specific licensing requirements and rules regarding traveling nurses. Part of Mastercare’s responsibility is to ensure that you have all of the proper documents and certifications for out of state facilities. Never the less, all of the necessary licenses will be obtained well before the start date.
With this position, what does full time entail?
As with any other company, full time entails a 40 hour work week when working shifts of 8 -10 hours. But, if working in 12 hour increments, a 36 hour work week is also considered full time.
How will I be able to tend to personal business such as banking and my mail?
There are a couple different ways that you can go about this. While we will not tell you what to do, we can offer some suggestions to make it easier. Banking can be taken care of with the option of direct deposit. Also, you will be able to check your account balance and transaction history (as long as your bank offers these services) with an internet connection. Mail could be forwarded each time that you move, you could have a permanent address with a friend or family (and have them forward all mail to you), or have a private post office box having the contents forwarded on a predetermined basis.
Am I able to work at all different types of hospitals?
Yes, when meeting with the recruiter, you will be able to discuss all of your preferences (which you may change at any time). However, you can still be considered for positions at all of the different types of facilities if you wish.
Will there be an orientation at all of the different facilities?
All facilities are different; with that, all facilities will choose to orient traveling nurses differently. This is also dependent on the facility size and their procedure with permanent positions. Your recruiter will also be able to provide you information on the facility. This is also a topic that should be discussed in your interview with the facility.
Would it be difficult to change companies, or is there a contract?
There is a not a contract. We want what is best for you. The contractual relationship with our company is operated on an assignment basis.
What will I get paid?
Your pay rate will be dependent on the following criteria: location, education / specialty and facility. Generally, the RN pay scale can be up to $40/hour whereas the LPN surgical technologists and respiratory therapists are usually up to $28/hour. Also many hospitals may offer completion and sign on bonuses.
What benefits will I be entitled to?
Many of the travel companies offer full health care with individual plans available for dental and eye. Be sure to familiarize yourself with the benefit plan before consenting to an assignment.
Is there a 401K plan available?
401K plans are available to all employees. However, there may not be immediate eligibility and the company may set forth a waiting period before the funds will be matched.
Can I earn a bonus?
Yes! Many companies will offer bonuses upon the completion of an assignment. Also in some cases, sign on bonuses and tenure bonuses may be given. Please talk to your recruiter for complete details.
Is my travel reimbursed or it is flatly included in my pay?
Normally travel is reimbursed (from the traveling company to the traveling nurse) with a rate at $0.30/mile. And, it is tax free!
Can I expect any assistance in continuing education?
Mastercare provides tuition assistance to our employees that wish to complete their RN schooling and requires 2 years of service following graduation. While the medical field is advancing every day, we want to provide the best, well trained professionals possible. We also provide semi-annual training to on updated industry skills.
Will living accommodation arrangements be made for me?
Either the arrangements can be made for you or you can make your own. If the arrangements are made for you, normally workers will share a two bedroom two bath apartment close to the hospital. It will be fully furnished with all of the utilities set up prior to your arrival. The utilities will be paid for by the company. However, the accommodations will differ depending on location.
If I chose to find my own housing, am I eligible for a housing stipend?
Yes, if you chose to find your own location you will be granted a stipend. This option, however needs to be discussed prior to accepting an assignment to ensure that suitable living quarters will be found.
Do I have to travel alone? Can I bring family or friends?
You can travel with friends or family! The only requirement is to let your recruiter know a head of time so that the proper living arrangements may be made. You will be responsible to provide travel costs for family members.
Is it possible to take an assignment with a friend?
Yes it is. You can take assignments at the same location or in close proximity. Also, with the living arrangements made by the company, it is quite possible to that you will be able to live together.
Are pets allowed?
Another perk of the job! You may take your pets with you as you travel. However you will need to ensure that all of their shots are up to date. Also, the recruiter must be informed so that the proper housing arrangements can be made. If the living arrangements require a pet security deposit, you will be responsible for paying.
| | [Back to Top] | | Q5: | Physician Services: | | A5: |
Mastercare is committed to providing physician placement services to hospitals and facilities throughout the United States. Each physicians professional experience and career goals are considered when job opportunities and locum tenens assignments are matched. All concerns regarding the location of the assignment and any job requirements are discussed, addressed, and approved by the physician.
Mastercare currently works both locally and across the nation, filling assignments both short-term and long-term. We understand that each job opportunity varies in office hours, procedures, call coverage, atmosphere, and patient volume; our representatives questions are all detailed specifically to match your professional skills, as well as your requirements to the locum tenens assignment.
Services for Physicians:
- Recruitment
- Nationwide marketing advice for physician skills
- Incentive packages and compensation recommendations
- Professional job assignment introductions
- Detailed reviews on practice and community/job location
- Itinerary and travel plans to job location
- Assignment consultant interviewing regarding career goals
- Contract negotiating
- Contract reviewing and finalizing
- Relocation assistance
- Follow-up consultation
Note: Physicians recruitment does not require any fees or expenses. All fees and expenses are to be paid by the recruiting company.
Locum tenens assignments are a great fit for a number of reasons.
Benefits for a physician on locum tenens assignment:
- Choice of when and where you work
- Career flexibility
- Opportunity to test drive the community (ensure it will be a good fit for you and your family)
- Meet new people
- Higher compensation
- No malpractice insurance, staff or overhead expenses
- Opportunity to work in different facilities across the country
- Relocation, travel and transportation compensation
- Free accommodation
Mastercare representatives are professional match makers when it comes to candidate physicians and clients.
Locum tenens assignment examples:
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Anesthesiology |
Gynecology |
Otolaryngology |
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Cardiology |
Hospitalist |
Pathology |
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Interventional Cardiology |
Hematology |
Pediatrics |
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Cardiothoracic Surgery |
Infectious Diseases |
Perinatology |
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Cardiovascular Disease |
Internal Medicine |
Plastic Surgery |
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Cardiovascular Surgery |
Nephrology |
Psychiatry |
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Critical Care Medicine |
Neurology |
Pulmonary Disease |
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Dentistry |
Neurosurgery |
Radiology |
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Dermatology |
Obstetrics |
Teleradiology |
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Endocrinology |
Occupational Medicine |
Trauma Surgery |
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Family Practice |
Oncology |
Urgent/Acute Care |
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Gastroenterology |
Radiation Oncology |
Urology |
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General Surgery |
Orthopedic Surgery |
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