CareLink Offers Registry of Independent Workers

 

NORTH LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (August 10, 2007) – CareLink is now maintaining a registry of independent home care workers who have passed background and driver’s license screenings. The registry was created as an additional resource for people in Carelink’s six-county service area in central Arkansas who need home care and would like to interview, hire and pay workers for this service themselves.

The registry includes contact information, experience and/or certification for workers who are available for personal care, household chores, sitter services, and driving. Copies can be requested by calling 501-372-5300 or 800-482-6359. CareLink usually mails copies within 24 hours of receiving requests.

Luke Mattingly, vice president for home care, CareLink, said he became aware of the need for this registry through the many calls to the agency’s information and assistance hotline requesting a list of workers that individuals could hire privately.

“Sometimes the agency model of service is not a good fit for people who want to have more control over workers that care for them or their family members,” Mattingly said.

“Agencies have to comply with many regulations to remain licensed; some people who need to hire someone to help them out at home don’t necessarily need all the requirements that agency regulations call for. CareLink established the registry for these people,” Mattingly said.

Mattingly added that an important component of the registry is the requirement that all workers undergo background screenings and, for those who will be driving for their employers, drivers’ license screenings. “CareLink believes this will increase safety for the older citizens who will be hiring workers from this registry,” Mattingly said.

CareLink, a private nonprofit agency serving Faulkner, Lonoke, Monroe, Prairie, Pulaski and Saline counties, links older people and family caregivers to information and resources that help them stay active and independent.