You may have some questions regarding personal care. Below, we've provided answers to some of the most common. Should you have questions that are not answered here, please feel free to contact Oakleaf Personal Care Home.

What is the difference between a nursing home and a personal care home?

Nursing homes are licensed medical facilities that are inspected and licensed by the Pennsylvania Department of Health. They must meet both state and federal standards. There are third party reimbursement mechanisms for services--Medicare and Medicaid.

Personal care homes are residential facilities that offer personal care services, assistance and supervision to 4 or more persons who are not relatives of the operator and who need and receive personal care services. They are licensed in the Commonwealth through the Department of Public Welfare.

Does Medicare pay for care in a personal care home?

No. The Medicare program can only be used as a source of payment for skilled nursing care. Eligibility requirements as defined by Medicare are strict and will not cover intermediate or personal care.

Must I surrender all of my assets in order to be cared for by Oakleaf Personal Care Home?

No. You will only be billed for the care and services you receive.

Do the fees cover everything?

In general, our daily rate covers care and services provided by Oakleaf. They do not cover physician visits, cost of medications, transportation, telephone, or cable. It is possible that your insurance may cover professional healthcare services. Please refer to the rate schedule for a breakdown of fees and covered services.

Do personal care homes have to hire licensed staff?

Many personal care homes do employ doctors, registered nurses, certified nursing assistants and licensed practical nurses to assist in service provision for the residents, but it is not a requirement. Oakleaf does have registered nurses and certified medication technicians on staff to provide the best quality of care in a residential setting.

Please click here to learn about the medical professionals affiliated with Oakleaf Personal Care Home.

How do I know what services Oakleaf Personal Care Home is supposed to provide for its residents?

Please take a few minutes to explore our web site. It will provide a very clear picture of services provided at Oakleaf. Then, contact us. We'll be glad to explain our services and fees.

Also, ask to see a copy of our standard resident written agreement. Services and fees are required to be included in all agreements.

What is the role of the resident's family and friends?

Family members and friends should focus on the personal care home as just that--"home." The families and friends of our residents play an integral role in partnering with us to meet the emotional, social, spiritual and physical needs of the resident. Regular visits, invitations to family gatherings and outings, phone calls, attention to clothing needs, and participation with the resident in family functions are some things that family members and friends can do to enhance the quality of a resident's life.

Are personal care homes regulated and controlled?

Yes. All personal care homes are licensed by the State of Pennsylvania Department of Public Welfare. Personal care homes also meet state and local health, fire and safety standards.

What are the rights and responsibilities of residents living in a personal care homes?

The Resident Rights are specified in the Personal Care Home regulations. Residents Rights must be posted in each licensed personal care home and are part of each resident's written agreement. They include:

• The right to leave and return to the home at reasonable times consistent with the home rules.
• The right to receive visitors for a minimum of 8 hours a day, 7 days per week.
• The right to have reasonable privacy to a telephone in the home and to make local calls without charge, except where a standard pay telephone is in use.
• The right to have access to United States mail and can write and send mail, at resident's expense, and to receive uncensored and unopened mail.
• The right to attend and participate in religious activities.
• The right to be treated with dignity and respect.
• Free to request and receive assistance in relocating.
• Free to exercise civil rights, voice grievances and recommend changes to policies and services of the home without fear of reprisal or intimidation.
• The right to be compensated in accordance with State and Federal labor standards for labor performed on behalf of the home (in lieu of a staff person).
• The right to privacy of self and possessions.
• The right to be free from abuse.
• Free to associate and communicate with others privately.
• Free from restraints.
• The right to question and/or refuse a medication if I believe there may be a medication error.

Each personal care home may set Home Rules that specify the resident responsibilities and any restrictions that the residents must follow while in the home. These Home Rules should also be posted in the home, and are part of each written agreement.


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