What to expect working with Willow & Bridget
Step One. Discovery Phone Call
Let's chat on the phone to discuss your general situation and how we might be of service.
Step Two. Free In-person Consultation
Schedule an in-person visit (our time is free to you). This meeting is about 1 hour and can occur more than once (differing family groups). We discuss a wide variety of topics on care-needs, types of communities available, what your loved one wants & values, financial and Medicaid considerations, family dynamics, and more. Based on this meeting we decide on the top three places to tour, that fit all the variables.
Step Three. Scheduled Tours
We schedule and attend the tours with you. Helping you know what to look for and questions to ask. We are your advocate.
Step Four. Transition & Move-in
During the move, there can often be anxieties and questions. We are here to help hold your hand in the pre-admissions, moving day and understanding a community's processes once moved in.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you help us understand Medicaid?
Yes. We address financial considerations when meeting with clients, giving a clear understanding on how this program works in the State of Oregon as well as what the senior community needs will be. We also provide names of specialized attorneys for the spend-down process, particularly when there is a spousal situation.
How is this service free?
When we help a family move into a community, the community pays us a referral fee, as they are happy we have brought them an appropriate resident. We place clients in all of the communities in Eugene/Springfield area. Our assistance is directed by the client's best interest.
This service works best if family DO NOT contact communities prior to working with us (otherwise, it can become a pro-bono situation, and we would not get paid for our work).
Can you help us find placement urgently?
Yes. It’s not uncommon that all is ‘fine’, until it’s not, and it becomes a crisis and your loved one is in the hospital or rehab. We can jump in and help you quickly narrow down the best options. Call us first!
And also know, there are state and community assessment requirements that can slow the process down. Letting us help you have your Plan B before you are in urgent need is ideal.
Are referral agents regulated by the state?
Yes. To be an agent, the state of Oregon requires a background check and a registration process to be licensed. Per regulations, we will offer you a Disclosure Form and Oregon license. These outline how we work with clients and we are up to date with Oregon requirements.
Willow Care is also part of OSRAA - an Oregon association of agents that come together to share information, follow ethic guidelines, and keep abreast with CEU credits annually.
Why use a referral agency’s services?
Touring communities on your own only gives you half the picture (e.g., what does a place look like, location, smell, price etc.). What about the things you can’t ‘see’ on a tour? We discuss reputation, staff turnover, quality of care, corporate influence, ownership changes amongst other things. Our many years of experience placing clients allows us to give you solid information on quality of care & reputation.