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Cutting the Wrong Corners
http://www.setthestageforsuccess.com/articles/19464/1/Cutting-the-Wrong-Corners/Page1.html
Rejoyce Wilson-Herbert
Rejoyce Wilson-Herbert is the founder of National Information Resource Services (NIRS), an organization committed to educating people on the home care industry. Currently residing in Newport Coast, CA, Rejoyce is the General Manager of MemorialCare Home Caregivers. She is also a nationally recognized advocate for the elderly and is one of the most highly-sought after speakers in her field. She is a proud mother, grandmother and great-grandmother and continues to work hard and help people realize their own goals.
 
By Rejoyce Wilson-Herbert
Published on 09/17/2008
 
After reading the article “Shopping for a Smoother Face” by Barbara Ficarra, RN, BSN, MPA, I was inspired to do a follow up article that would address a similar situation that is associated with the life and well being of the elderly and the shut-ins.

After reading the article “Shopping for a Smoother Face” by Barbara Ficarra, RN, BSN, MPA, I was inspired to do a follow up article that would address a similar situation that is associated with the life and well being of the elderly and the shut-ins.

An elderly person, or a homebound consumer, sometimes requires medical care inside their home, the kind of medical care that would require a trained physician, or a registered nurse. Many family members, unaware of the risks, hire individuals that are not medically licensed to perform medical procedures or dispense medication to their family members. Think about it, would you hire an executive assistant to perform heart surgery? Of course not! The elderly consumer and/or the family member that usually makes the decisions about hiring a caregiver aren't purposely hiring an unqualified person for care, they just don’t know.

Unfortunately, the increased number of elderly people and individuals requiring assistance with daily living has also increased the number of people looking to make a quick buck. Many of these people have little, if any training at all. Some even claim to be nurses and doctors in other countries. The reality is these imposters have very little concern over the well-being of the client they are caring for and are solely interested in the money they are making. As Barbara stated in her article most medical scams or improper medical procedures that are sold to unsuspecting consumers are strictly for financial gain to the person, or persons passing themselves off as an authority in the area, even if they have no real qualifications.

Cutting corners or compromising with one’s health is as dangerous as playing Russian roulette. Each individual has to be responsible for their own health care. There are many people who study hard, train, and pass state tests to ensure they are ready to provide care for ailing people. Be sure to properly research any medical procedures or medical personnel prior to receiving service.

These articles are not written to scare anyone, but are meant to raise awareness and protect the consumer; each author hopes to inspire and educate. The interesting fact is if you think it’s not right, then you should listen to your inner voice and question. Remember, no one cares about your health and well being as much as you do. Be your own advocate.