What will I be doing?

Health is one of the most important aspects of life. Most people would trade wealth for health. You can be an important part of this industry while working as a care giver.

A care giver provides health care services most often in the home of the client. Care may involve simply making sure the patient’s basic needs are met.

What will I need to start?

To start your care giver business you’ll first need a strong desire to serve others. Without it, some of the chores are more difficult. You will also need
a basic understanding of the patient’s health problems and how to assist. A degree, certification or advanced courses in nursing will help you. Without a background or certification in medical services or nursing, your opportunities and potential income will be more limited. You will only be able to provide the basic services of dressing, bathings, etc.

Typically, special equipment and medications will be provided by others. They may also provide a bed and clothing. What you need to start depends somewhat on the type of care you will provide, whether full- or part-time, whether in your home or that of your patient and other factors.

Who will my customers be?

Who hires independent care givers? Insurance companies, hospitals, nursing homes, care management services and individuals. Your ultimate customer will be the patient.

To find customers, let government and private health care organizations in your area know that you are offering in-home care and advertise your services in local newspapers.

How much should I charge?

A care giver who is simply offering companion services without medical assistance will charge less for lower skill requirements. In this case, the care giver may charge $12 to $18 a day, less if there are more than three clients being cared for at any one time. Typically, what you get for health care services will depend on what others are paying. That is, a hospital or insurance company may offer $70 a day per patient for in-home health care. Or a care management service may pay $85 a week for a specific number of visits. Billing will be by the week or month.

How much will I make?

The income you make as a care giver is small, but you can have more than one patient at a time. Your income as a care giver depends on your number and type of clients, their specific needs, how much actual time your business requires, your abilities and skills and what the local market will pay. Income can range from $15,000 to $45,000 or more a year.

How can I get started?

First, check with government health services in your area to learn the
requirements for operating a home care business. Some states have stricter laws than others. You may be required to have your home certified. You may also need to take some classes.

Call Mentor Clinical Care (800-388-5150).

How can I use computers to increase profits?

Care givers who use their home for helping clients have many opportunities for writing off legitimate expenses to reduce their tax obligation. It starts with good recordkeeping. QuickBooks, for example, can be set up to track income from the state and clients, track client-specific expenses, and prorate general expenses to your clients based on days each month they live in your home.