📘 SILVER HOME CARE

Client Handbook

680 Lincoln Hwy

Fairless Hills, PA 19030

800-719-6912

[email protected]

www.silverhomecare.com

Prepared by: Kelly Schmunk, Administrator

Last Updated: July 1, 2025

1

Welcome

Welcome to Silver Home Care. We are honored that you have chosen us to support your care needs. From your very first day of services, you can expect to be treated with dignity, kindness, professionalism, and respect. Our caregivers and staff are here to protect your independence while ensuring you feel safe, valued, and cared for.

This handbook explains your rights and responsibilities and what you can expect from us as your care provider. It also shows how Silver Home Care follows Pennsylvania and federal requirements to protect you. Throughout this handbook, you will see references to the forms you signed when beginning services — including your Service Agreement, Consent for PHI, and Client's Rights — along with the policies we follow every day.

If you ever have questions, our office staff and supervisors are available to help. We welcome your feedback, and we want to hear from you so we can continue improving the care we provide.

Regulatory References: 55 Pa. Code § 52.11; 28 Pa. Code Ch. 611.

Policy References: Service Agreement; Consent for PHI; Client's Rights.

2

Company Overview

2.1 Business Location & Contact Information

Silver Home Care

680 Lincoln Hwy, Fairless Hills, PA 19030

  • Main Office (24-hour line): 800-719-6912
  • On-Call Supervisor: Press 2 from the main number
  • Kelly Schmunk, Administrator: 267-547-0310 (calls/text)
  • Patti Carvahlo, Staffing Manager: 954-520-2843
  • Email: [email protected]
  • Website: www.silverhomecare.com

We make every effort to answer calls as they come in. If we're unavailable, your call will be returned as quickly as possible — typically the same day, and always by the end of the next business day.

For emergencies, always call 911 first. Then notify the office if the emergency affects your care or schedule.

2.2 Hours of Operation

Day Office Hours
Monday – Friday 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday – Sunday Closed

Note: Clients receiving care outside these hours still have 24/7 access to support via our on-call line at 800-719-6912.

2.3 Services We Provide

  • Personal Assistance Services (PAS) – CHC Medicaid
  • Long-Term Care – Veterans Programs
  • Private Pay Services: Personal Care (ADLs), Companionship, Housekeeping, Transportation, Medication Reminders, Respite Care

2.4 Licensing, Medicaid, and Accreditation

  • • PA Department of Health, Home Care Agency License #3131601
  • • Medicaid Provider under Community Health Choices (CHC)
  • Authorized MCOs: PA Health and Wellness, UPMC, Keystone First

We operate in full compliance with 28 Pa. Code Chapter 611, 28 Pa. Code Chapter 52, and all applicable federal, state, and contractual guidelines.

3

Our Mission and Service Philosophy

At Silver Home Care, we improve lives one visit at a time by embracing the values of independence, choice, and Person-centered care. Our philosophy centers on the belief that every individual has the right to shape their own care experience — and that our role is to support that autonomy.

Independence and Self-Direction

We believe every individual has the right to:

  • • Live comfortably in their chosen home or community
  • • Make their own decisions about care and lifestyle
  • • Direct their care in ways that align with personal goals and values
  • • Maintain control over how services are delivered
  • • Be supported — not replaced — in their independence

Person-Centered Care

Our services are built around:

  • • Understanding the client as a whole person, not a diagnosis or checklist
  • • Respecting cultural, linguistic, spiritual, and familial identity
  • • Adapting care based on ongoing feedback and evolving needs
  • • Partnering with clients (and their families, when appropriate) to co-create care plans
  • • Honoring preferences — not just tolerating them

"We believe the most powerful care is the kind that helps you feel known, respected, and supported — on your terms."

4

Client Rights and Responsibilities

4.1 Your Rights as a Client

You have the right to:

  • • Be treated with dignity, respect, and kindness — without discrimination
  • • Receive care free from abuse, neglect, exploitation, and retaliation
  • • Participate in planning your own care and make informed decisions
  • • Accept or refuse any service, without affecting access to other services
  • • Know the name and qualifications of your caregiver
  • • Have your personal, financial, and medical information kept confidential
  • • Access your own records, with reasonable notice
  • • Receive a written notice at least 10 days before any change or termination of services
  • • Voice concerns, file complaints, and access advocacy resources without fear of retaliation
  • • Request communication support (including interpreters) at no cost

4.2 Your Responsibilities as a Client

To support safe and effective care, we ask that you:

  • • Treat caregivers and staff with respect and courtesy
  • • Provide accurate, complete information about your health and care needs
  • • Notify the office promptly if you need to cancel or change a visit
  • • Maintain a safe home environment (supervised pets, clear walkways, working utilities)
  • • Communicate concerns or changes in your condition as soon as possible
  • • Review and sign required forms (Service Agreement, Care Plan, etc.)
  • • Cooperate with caregivers and follow the agreed-upon care plan

4.3 Non-Discrimination Policy

Silver Home Care does not discriminate based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, or any other protected characteristic. Services are provided in accordance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and all applicable state and federal laws.

Regulatory References: 28 Pa. Code § 611.57; 55 Pa. Code §§ 52.11–52.18; Title VI; Section 504; ADA.

5

Communication Support and Language Access

Silver Home Care is committed to effective communication with all clients, including those with limited English proficiency, hearing loss, vision impairment, or other communication needs. You have the right to receive information in a language and format you can understand.

Language Assistance

  • Interpreters: Available for spoken and sign language at no cost to you
  • Translated Materials: Key documents can be translated upon request
  • Bilingual Staff: We match clients with bilingual caregivers when possible

Auxiliary Aids and Services

  • • Large print materials
  • • Audio recordings or verbal explanations
  • • Assistance completing forms
  • • TTY/TDD services for individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing

How to Request Help

To request communication assistance, contact our office at 800-719-6912 or email [email protected]. We will arrange services promptly and at no charge.

Regulatory References: Title VI of the Civil Rights Act; Section 504; ADA; 28 Pa. Code § 611.57.

6

Understanding and Paying for Home Care

Home care can be funded through several sources. Understanding your coverage options helps ensure you receive the care you need without unexpected costs.

Payment Options

Medicaid (Community Health Choices – CHC)

If you are enrolled in a CHC Managed Care Organization (PA Health & Wellness, UPMC, or Keystone First), your services may be covered at no cost based on your approved care plan.

Veterans Programs

Eligible veterans may receive home care benefits through VA programs. We can assist with enrollment verification.

Private Pay

For clients paying out-of-pocket, we offer competitive hourly rates. A rate sheet is provided during intake, and we are happy to discuss flexible scheduling options.

Long-Term Care Insurance

Many long-term care policies cover in-home personal care. Contact your insurance provider to verify benefits.

What Is Not Covered

Silver Home Care provides non-medical services only. We do not provide skilled nursing, physical therapy, medication administration, or medical treatments. If you need medical services, we can help coordinate with home health or hospice providers.

Questions? Contact us at 800-719-6912 to discuss your coverage and payment options.

7

Billing and Payment Policies

For Private Pay Clients

  • Invoices: Sent weekly or bi-weekly, itemizing dates, hours, and services
  • Payment Methods: Check, credit card, ACH bank transfer, or online payment
  • Payment Due: Within 14 days of invoice date
  • Late Payments: May result in service suspension; payment plans available upon request

For Medicaid (CHC) Clients

  • • Services are billed directly to your MCO — you will not receive a bill from us
  • • Services must be authorized by your Service Coordinator
  • • If you receive services beyond your authorization, you may be responsible for the cost

Cancellation Policy

If you need to cancel a visit, please notify us at least 24 hours in advance. Repeated late cancellations or no-shows may affect scheduling priority.

Financial Hardship

If you are experiencing financial difficulty, please speak with our office. We will work with you to find a solution, which may include adjusted payment schedules or referrals to community resources.

Questions about billing? Call 800-719-6912 or email [email protected].

8

Description of Services

Silver Home Care provides non-medical personal care and support services designed to help you live safely and independently at home.

Personal Care (Activities of Daily Living – ADLs)

  • • Bathing, grooming, and hygiene assistance
  • • Dressing and undressing
  • • Toileting and incontinence care
  • • Mobility assistance (transfers, walking, repositioning)
  • • Feeding assistance

Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADLs)

  • • Light housekeeping (vacuuming, laundry, dishes)
  • • Meal planning and preparation
  • • Grocery shopping and errands
  • • Medication reminders (we do not administer medications)
  • • Appointment scheduling and transportation coordination

Companionship

  • • Conversation and emotional support
  • • Accompaniment to appointments or social activities
  • • Recreational activities (reading, games, walks)
  • • Safety supervision

Respite Care

Temporary relief for family caregivers — allowing them to rest, work, or attend to other responsibilities while their loved one receives quality care.

Important: We do not provide skilled nursing, medical treatments, or medication administration. If you need medical services, we can help coordinate referrals.

9

Care Plan Development

Every client receives an individualized care plan developed collaboratively to reflect your needs, preferences, and goals.

The Care Planning Process

1

Pre-Visit Call

We contact you to introduce ourselves, explain our services, and gather initial information.

2

Initial Assessment

A supervisor visits your home to assess your needs, preferences, home environment, and safety considerations.

3

Care Plan Creation

Based on the assessment, we develop a written care plan that outlines the services you will receive, how often, and by whom.

4

Ongoing Review

Care plans are reviewed regularly (at least every 6 months or when your needs change) to ensure they remain accurate and effective.

Your Role in Care Planning

You (and your family or representative, if applicable) are active participants in care planning. We encourage you to:

  • • Share your preferences and priorities
  • • Ask questions about any aspect of your care
  • • Request changes when your needs evolve
  • • Provide feedback so we can improve

Regulatory References: 28 Pa. Code § 611.55; 55 Pa. Code § 52.14.

10

Direct Care Worker Selection & Training

We are committed to hiring qualified, trustworthy caregivers who reflect our values of kindness, respect, and professionalism.

Hiring Requirements

Before any caregiver is assigned to your home, they must:

  • • Pass a comprehensive background check (PA State Police, FBI fingerprint, Child Abuse Clearance)
  • • Complete a pre-employment drug screening
  • • Provide proof of identity and work authorization
  • • Submit professional references
  • • Complete orientation and competency training

Training & Competency

All caregivers receive training in:

  • • Personal care techniques (bathing, grooming, transfers)
  • • Infection control and universal precautions
  • • Safety and emergency procedures
  • • Client rights and confidentiality
  • • Recognizing and reporting abuse, neglect, and exploitation
  • • Documentation and Electronic Visit Verification (EVV)

Caregivers must demonstrate competency before providing care and complete annual refresher training to maintain skills.

Caregiver Matching

We do our best to match you with a caregiver who fits your needs, preferences, and personality. If you are not comfortable with your assigned caregiver, please let us know — we will work to find a better match.

Regulatory References: 28 Pa. Code §§ 611.52, 611.55, 611.56; 55 Pa. Code § 52.11.

11

Your Rights: Protection from Abuse, Neglect, and Exploitation

You have the absolute right to be safe. Silver Home Care has zero tolerance for abuse, neglect, or exploitation of any kind.

Definitions

  • Abuse: Any act that causes physical pain, injury, or emotional harm — including hitting, pushing, yelling, threatening, or intimidating.
  • Neglect: Failure to provide necessary care, supervision, or services — resulting in harm or risk of harm.
  • Exploitation: Taking advantage of a person for financial gain — such as stealing money, misusing property, or coercing someone to change legal documents.

How to Report

If you experience or witness abuse, neglect, or exploitation, report it immediately:

Silver Home Care: 800-719-6912

Adult Protective Services: 1-800-490-8505

PA Department of Health Hotline: 1-800-254-5164

911 (if in immediate danger)

All caregivers are mandated reporters — they are legally required to report suspected abuse or neglect. You will never face retaliation for reporting a concern.

Your safety is our priority. Every report is taken seriously and investigated promptly.

12

Client Safety and Emergencies

Your safety is our highest priority. Caregivers are trained to recognize hazards, respond to emergencies, and follow safety protocols during every visit.

In Case of Emergency

Always call 911 first in a medical emergency.

Then notify Silver Home Care at 800-719-6912 so we can coordinate follow-up care.

Caregiver Safety Training

All caregivers are trained in:

  • • Infection control and universal precautions
  • • Fall prevention and safe transfers
  • • Fire safety and evacuation procedures
  • • Recognizing signs of medical distress
  • • Emergency response protocols

Home Safety

To keep everyone safe, we ask that you:

  • • Keep walkways clear of clutter and tripping hazards
  • • Ensure adequate lighting, especially in hallways and stairs
  • • Secure pets during caregiver visits if they may pose a risk
  • • Maintain working smoke detectors and fire extinguishers
  • • Notify us of any safety concerns or changes in your home environment

Emergency Preparedness

We maintain emergency plans for weather events, power outages, and other disruptions. If your scheduled visit is affected, we will contact you as soon as possible to reschedule or arrange backup care.

Regulatory References: 28 Pa. Code §§ 611.55, 611.57; 55 Pa. Code § 52.17.

13

Complaints and Grievances

You have the right to voice concerns, file complaints, and request changes without fear of retaliation. We welcome your feedback — it helps us improve.

How to File a Complaint

You can report concerns in any of the following ways:

  • Phone: 800-719-6912
  • Email: [email protected]
  • In Person: Speak with your caregiver, supervisor, or any staff member
  • Written: Mail or deliver a written complaint to our office

What Happens Next

  • • Your complaint will be acknowledged within 2 business days
  • • We will investigate promptly and thoroughly
  • • You will receive a written response within 14 days
  • • If you are not satisfied, you may appeal or escalate your concern

External Reporting Options

You may also contact these agencies directly:

PA Department of Health: 1-800-254-5164

PA Human Relations Commission: 717-787-4410

Office for Civil Rights (HHS): 1-800-368-1019

Your MCO (if enrolled in CHC Medicaid)

No Retaliation. You will never be penalized for filing a complaint or raising a concern.

14

Home Surveillance Guidelines

Many clients use home surveillance cameras for security and peace of mind. We respect your right to monitor your home while also protecting the privacy of caregivers.

Our Policy

  • Disclosure: Please inform us if you have cameras in your home
  • Location: Cameras should be in common areas only — not in bathrooms, bedrooms where personal care occurs, or areas where the client undresses
  • Purpose: Recordings should be used for safety and quality purposes, not harassment or unfair surveillance
  • Notification: Caregivers will be informed that cameras are present

What We Ask of You

If you have concerns about care quality or caregiver conduct, we encourage you to speak with us directly. We are committed to resolving issues quickly and fairly.

Note: Audio recording without consent may violate Pennsylvania's wiretapping laws. Please consult legal counsel if you have questions about recording.

15

Scheduling and Communication Protocols

Clear communication helps us deliver consistent, reliable care. Here's what to expect and what we ask of you.

Scheduling Your Visits

  • • Your schedule is established during intake based on your care plan
  • • We do our best to assign consistent caregivers to build familiarity and trust
  • • If a caregiver is unavailable, we will arrange a qualified substitute and notify you in advance when possible

Cancellations and Changes

  • Client Cancellations: Please notify us at least 24 hours in advance
  • Emergencies: We understand emergencies happen — just call as soon as you can
  • Repeated No-Shows: May result in scheduling adjustments or service review

If Your Caregiver Is Late or Doesn't Arrive

Call us immediately at 800-719-6912. We monitor attendance and will take action to ensure your care is not disrupted.

Best Ways to Reach Us

  • Phone: 800-719-6912 (24/7)
  • Text: Kelly Schmunk at 267-547-0310
  • Email: [email protected]

Regulatory References: 55 Pa. Code § 52.44; 28 Pa. Code § 611.57.

16

Financial Boundaries and Medicaid Fraud Prevention

To protect you and maintain the integrity of our services, Silver Home Care enforces strict financial boundaries.

What Caregivers May NOT Do

  • • Handle, endorse, or deposit your checks
  • • Accept Power of Attorney, Guardianship, or Representative Payee status
  • • Borrow money or accept loans from clients
  • • Accept gifts, tips, or items of value
  • • Be named as a beneficiary in your will or insurance
  • • Manage your finances, pay bills, or access your bank accounts
  • • Make purchases on your behalf using your credit/debit cards

Medicaid Fraud Prevention

Medicaid fraud is a serious crime. Examples include:

  • • Billing for services not provided
  • • Falsifying visit times or documentation
  • • Caregivers clocking in when not present
  • • Clients signing for visits that did not occur

To report suspected fraud:

PA Office of Attorney General: 1-800-932-0582

HHS Office of Inspector General: 1-800-447-8477

These boundaries protect you. If a caregiver asks you to do any of the above, report it to our office immediately.

17

Advance Directives and Future Planning

An advance directive is a legal document that outlines your wishes for medical care if you become unable to communicate them yourself. While Silver Home Care does not provide medical services, we support your right to plan for the future.

Types of Advance Directives

  • Living Will: Specifies the types of medical treatment you do or do not want (e.g., resuscitation, life support)
  • Healthcare Power of Attorney: Names a person to make medical decisions on your behalf if you cannot
  • POLST (Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment): A medical order signed by your doctor that guides emergency responders

Our Role

  • • We will ask if you have an advance directive on file
  • • If you have one, we will keep a copy in your client record
  • • Caregivers are trained to honor DNR (Do Not Resuscitate) orders when documented
  • • We can provide information and referrals if you wish to create an advance directive

Note: Creating an advance directive is voluntary. Your care will not be affected by your decision to have or not have one.

18

Termination of Services

You have the right to end services at any time, for any reason. If Silver Home Care must end services, we will provide advance notice and explain the reason.

Client-Initiated Termination

You may discontinue services at any time by notifying our office. We appreciate as much notice as possible to ensure a smooth transition.

Agency-Initiated Termination

Silver Home Care may end services under certain circumstances, including:

  • • Non-payment for private pay services
  • • Unsafe home environment that cannot be resolved
  • • Verbal or physical abuse toward caregivers
  • • Repeated refusal to follow the agreed-upon care plan
  • • Loss of Medicaid eligibility or MCO authorization

Notice Requirements

  • Private Pay Clients: At least 10 days' written notice
  • Medicaid (CHC) Clients: At least 30 days' written notice (except in cases of immediate safety risk)

We will work with you to resolve issues before termination whenever possible and assist with referrals to other providers if needed.

Regulatory References: 28 Pa. Code § 611.57; 55 Pa. Code § 52.44(b).

19

Incident Notification

Silver Home Care is required to report certain incidents to protect your safety and comply with state and federal regulations.

What We Report

We notify the appropriate authorities when any of the following occur:

  • • Suspected abuse, neglect, or exploitation
  • • Serious injury or fall requiring medical attention
  • • Hospitalization or emergency room visit
  • • Death of a client
  • • Medication errors (if applicable)
  • • Missing client or elopement
  • • Any event that poses a significant risk to health or safety

Who Is Notified

Depending on the type of incident, we may notify:

  • • Your emergency contact or family member (with your consent)
  • • Your Managed Care Organization (MCO) if you are on Medicaid
  • • Adult Protective Services (APS)
  • • PA Department of Health
  • • Law enforcement (if required)

Your Role

Please notify us immediately if you experience a fall, injury, hospitalization, or any event that may affect your care. Early communication helps us respond quickly and adjust your care plan if needed.

Regulatory References: 28 Pa. Code § 611.57; 55 Pa. Code §§ 52.17, 52.18.

20

Your Privacy and Information Sharing

Silver Home Care is committed to protecting your personal and health information in compliance with HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) and Pennsylvania law.

What Information We Collect

  • • Contact information (name, address, phone, email)
  • • Health and medical history relevant to your care
  • • Insurance and payment information
  • • Emergency contacts
  • • Service records and visit documentation

How We Use Your Information

  • • To plan and provide your care
  • • To coordinate with your healthcare providers (with your consent)
  • • To bill for services
  • • To comply with legal and regulatory requirements

When We Share Your Information

We only share your information when:

  • • You give us written permission
  • • It is necessary to provide your care
  • • Required by law (e.g., reporting abuse, court orders)
  • • Needed for billing or payment

Your Rights

  • Access: You may request a copy of your records
  • Correction: You may request corrections to inaccurate information
  • Restrictions: You may request limits on how we use or share your information
  • Confidential Communication: You may request we contact you in a specific way
  • Accounting: You may request a list of disclosures we have made

To exercise any of these rights, contact our office at 800-719-6912 or email [email protected].

Regulatory References: HIPAA Privacy Rule (45 C.F.R. Part 164); 28 Pa. Code § 611.57.

Thank You for Choosing Silver Home Care

We are honored to support you in your home. If you have questions about anything in this handbook, please don't hesitate to contact us.

Client Handbook

📘 SILVER HOME CARE

Client Handbook

Office Address

680 Lincoln Hwy

Fairless Hills, PA 19030

800-719-6912
www.silverhomecare.com

Prepared by: Kelly Schmunk, Administrator

Last Updated: 7/1/2025

7

Abuse, Neglect, Exploitation & Incident Reporting

Silver Home Care is committed to protecting you from abuse, neglect, exploitation, intimidation, or retaliation. Caregivers are trained as mandated reporters, which means they are legally required to report any suspected abuse or neglect.

If you ever feel unsafe, you should:

  • • Tell your caregiver or call the office immediately.
  • • You may also call Adult Protective Services (APS) at 1-800-490-8505.
  • • You may file a complaint with the Pennsylvania Department of Health Complaint Hotline at 1-800-254-5164.

All reports are taken seriously and investigated promptly. Silver Home Care also reports critical incidents to the proper authorities and your managed care organization if applicable.

Regulatory References: 28 Pa. Code § 611.57; 55 Pa. Code § 52.18.

Policy References: Critical Incident Management – Incident Reporting Policy.

Intake Paperwork: Client's Rights; Complaint Resolution.