Navigating Liability Insurance for Home Care in Idaho: What You Need to Know

Homewatch CareGivers of Idaho has been providing caregiving services in Idaho since 2009. During that time, we have spoken to many clients about the costs and benefits of hiring a caregiver agency versus a private caregiver. One of those benefits is that caregiver agencies typically carry the necessary insurance coverage to protect not only the company but the caregivers, staff, and clients.

Home care liability insurance coverage is one of these. This article summarizes the coverage typically included in such coverage and the benefits of the coverage by all stakeholders.

Types of Home Care Liability Insurance

Home care liability insurance coverage is designed to safeguard both companies and individuals providing home care services. Its primary purpose is to protect those who offer home care services from liabilities or negligence claims, which in turn reduces the financial risk associated with unforeseen accidents, injuries, or property damage that may occur while providing care to clients in their homes. This is also to ensure the safety of our caregivers as well as our valued clients, securing peace of mind and comprehensive protection for all parties involved.

General liability insurance shields home health care providers from claims of bodily injury or property damage caused by the caregiver's actions or negligence, as well as advertising injuries like slander and libel. We can’t deny the fact that no matter how careful you are, there are risks when handling a client. General liability insurance provides coverage for medical expenses, legal fees, and settlements.
- Examples of coverage:
  - A client tripping and falling during a caregiver's assistance.
  - Breaking an expensive vase while cleaning the client’s home.

Professional liability insurance, also known as malpractice insurance, covers claims of professional negligence or errors in professional services. It is particularly relevant for caregivers providing medical or specialized care services.
- Examples of coverage:
  - A caregiver administers medication incorrectly.
  - A caregiver fails to notice and report signs of deterioration in a client's health condition, leading to a worsening of the client's condition
Cyber liability insurance safeguards against data breaches and cyberattacks involving sensitive client information.
- Examples of coverage:
  - Data breach wherein the home care agency’s computer system containing confidential client information was hacked, leading to the theft of personal data such as medical records and financial information.
  - In the event of a ransomware attack where a hacker encrypts the agency's files and demands payment to release them
Workers' compensation insurance provides coverage for employees who sustain injuries or illnesses while on the job, encompassing medical expenses, compensation for lost wages, disability benefits, and support for dependents in the unfortunate event of an employee's death. It ensures that caregivers receive proper care and compensation in case of on-the-job accidents.
- Examples of coverage:
  - If a caregiver slips on a wet floor while assisting a client with bathing and sustains a back injury, requiring medical treatment and time off work for recovery.
  - A caregiver injures their shoulder while lifting a heavy patient from a wheelchair to a bed. As a result, they are unable to perform their caregiving duties for an extended period.
Healthcare Insurance covers medical expenses for caregivers, including doctor visits, hospitalization, prescription medications, and preventive care. It promotes caregivers' health and well-being, enabling them to provide optimal care to clients.
- Examples of coverage:
  - If a caregiver employed by a home care agency falls ill and requires medical attention, healthcare insurance would cover the cost of doctor's visits, prescription medications, diagnostic tests, and any necessary treatments.
  - Home care agencies may offer healthcare insurance benefits to their caregivers, including coverage for routine health check-ups and preventive care services.

Why Insured Caregivers Matter

When it comes to entrusting someone with the care of your loved ones or yourself, peace of mind is priceless. Hiring caregivers who are covered by liability insurance offers a multitude of benefits:

Financial Protection - Liability insurance safeguards against potential liabilities arising from accidents, injuries, or property damage during caregiving duties. It shields both clients and caregivers from bearing the brunt of unexpected expenses or legal claims.
Professionalism and Accountability - Insured caregivers demonstrate a commitment to professionalism and accountability in their practice. They prioritize safety, adhere to best practices, and mitigate risks, fostering an environment of trust and reliability.
Quality of Care - Caregivers with liability insurance often uphold higher standards of care, adhering to safety protocols and ethical guidelines. This dedication to excellence ensures a superior quality of care for clients, promoting their well-being and comfort.
Legal Protection - Liability insurance provides legal protection for both clients and caregivers in the event of disputes or legal proceedings stemming from caregiving-related incidents. It covers legal defense costs and settlements, minimizing potential legal liabilities.

Homewatch CareGivers Caregivers' Comprehensive Coverage

At Homewatch CareGivers, we prioritize the safety, security, and well-being of our clients and caregivers. Our caregivers are comprehensively insured, with coverage that includes:

Workers' Compensation - Ensuring that our caregivers are protected in the event of work-related injuries or illnesses, with access to necessary medical care and financial support.
Liability Insurance - Providing peace of mind for both clients and caregivers by offering protection against liabilities arising from accidents or incidents during caregiving duties.
Healthcare Insurance - Prioritizing the health and well-being of our caregivers, empowering them to deliver exceptional care with confidence and vitality.

caregivers with older woman

Liability insurance coverage provides crucial benefits for both clients and caregivers, offering financial protection and ensuring high-quality care. By offering comprehensive coverage for our caregivers, we can guarantee you a safe and compassionate caregiving experience!

Sources/References:

CM&F Group. (2022, February 23). Home health care liability insurance coverage options. CM&F. https://www.cmfgroup.com/knowledge-center/home-health-care-malpractice/coverage-options/#:~:text=General%20liability%20insurance%20for%20home,and%20omissions%20in%20professional%20services
Frankenfield, J. (2023, July 24). Errors and Omissions (E&O) Insurance: What It Covers. Investopedia. https://www.investopedia.com/terms/e/errors-omissions-insurance.asp
General Liability Insurance - Get online quotes | Insureon. (2021b, October 13). https://www.insureon.com/small-business-insurance/general-liability
Kagan, J. (2022, June 21). Liability insurance: what it is, how it works, major types. Investopedia. https://www.investopedia.com/terms/l/liability_insurance.asp