Frequently Asked Questions
Is homecare is the best option for you or your loved one?
Our care coordinators will help you determine if home care is the best option. We can give you other resources such as placement agencies, assisted living facilities, or skilled nursing facilities.
What care is needed and how much?
Care coordinators are able to evaluate the client and consult with other providers such as physicians and social workers to make care recommendations.
Can I afford homecare?
During your initial consultation, your care coordinator may discuss different options with you. Partial live-in shifts may cost considerably less for those that qualify. We can also provide split shifts for clients that need assistance morning and night. We can even offer 2 hour shifts for those on a budget or not requiring much assistance. All or part of the services you need may be covered under your insurance. Care coordinators have been trained regarding Long Term Care insurance. They also know what services may be covered under your Medicare or supplemental insurance. If you cannot afford homecare and your insurance will not cover the services you need, we can give you information about Arizona Long Term Care, The Area Agency on Aging, and other financial aid resources.
What in-home services are available through my insurance?
Care coordinators will explain what services such as hospice, home health, medical equipment, and doctor visits may be covered under your insurance or Medicare. We can educate you regarding what these services provide and help to initiate them, if you so desire and qualify.
What will my long term care insurance cover?
Care coordinators and Apple Tree administrative staff will review your long term care policy and explain your benefits to you. We can also assist you in filling out paperwork and communicate directly with your insurance company, if you like.
What is the screening process for Apple Tree direct care workers?
Each employee is meticulously screened for the following: personal ethics, educational background, business and personal background, past employment history, special training and certification verification, state driving background checks, automobile proof of insurance, social security identification, and proof of citizenship.
*Must obtain an FBI fingerprint clearance card (national background check)
What are the requirements for Apple Tree direct care workers?
Pass a rigorous interview and screening process
Obtain an FBI fingerprint clearance card (national background check)
Obtain a notarized criminal history affidavit
Values that reflect Apple Tree Home Care’s mission and vision
Personality that will enable a successful and comfortable relationship with seniors
Must be responsible, trustworthy and kind
Must have a passion for helping seniors
Must be 18 years of age and have reliable transportation
What training is required for Apple Tree direct care workers?
Apple Tree Home Care ensures that direct care workers are trained by a nurse or medical assistant. These individuals have extensive healthcare knowledge and background. The guidelines used for our training were those developed by the Direct Care Workforce (DCW) Initiative. The DCW is a public-private partnership that seeks to promote a stable and competent direct care workforce to meet the growing care needs in Arizona and provide support for families. DCW has developed guidelines for training and testing of direct care workers. These guidelines will apply to programs offered by ALTCS and DES. If you would like more information regarding the DCW initiative or training requirements for direct care workers in Arizona, please contact your care coordinator.