Service Agreement for Independent Healthcare Support

What a good one includes

• A granular list of daily tasks, such as mobility assistance, meal preparation, medication reminders, or hygiene support, to prevent task creep.
• The exact working hours, holiday expectations, and a clear protocol for how and when the caregiver must notify the client if they are sick and unable to work.
• A clear breakdown of hourly rates, overtime pay, holiday premiums, and how the caregiver will be reimbursed for out-of-pocket expenses like groceries or gas.
• A list of designated emergency contacts, preferred medical facilities, and the specific steps the caregiver must take during a medical crisis.
• Explicit guidelines regarding confidentiality, areas of the home that are private, and rules around camera monitoring or visitors during shifts.
• The required notice period for both parties to end the agreement and the conditions under which immediate termination is justified.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Vaguely describing duties, which can lead to caregivers performing physical or clinical tasks they are not licensed or insured to handle.
• Neglecting to state who pays for fuel or insurance when the caregiver drives the client in their personal vehicle, which often leads to financial disputes.
• Failing to set clear rules on who in the family has the authority to request updates or change the care plan, which can drag caregivers into personal conflicts.
• Failing to clarify whether the caregiver is classified as a household employee or an independent contractor, resulting in unexpected tax audits and penalties.

Frequently asked questions