GEM FAQs

Do you have accredited nurses on staff?

Yes, GEM has both Registered Nurses (RNs) and Registered Practical Nurses (RPNs) on staff. These experienced, caring individuals are trained to provide specialized support such as wound care, administering medication, intravenous therapy, pain management and more. Our nurses can offer private care to individuals in their own homes as well as to those people looking for supplementary care in retirement homes, long-term care settings and hospitals.

 

I understand you don’t offer live-in services; can I still get 24 hour coverage if needed?

Absolutely. We are able to arrange a team of caring professionals who can attend to an individuals’ needs in shifts of up to 12 hours per day. As one worker transitions to the next person on shift, they are able to share updates so everyone is apprised of any current issues. By utilizing a team approach to coverage, we can ensure that a group of support staff become familiar with the client, and the client with them. This, in our experience, leads to successful working relationships and makes delivering consistent coverage with no gaps much smoother. 

 

My family member lives in a retirement home but needs additional support beyond what is available there. Can GEM be of assistance?

Yes, GEM’s dedicated personal support workers (PSWs) are available to assist clients when additional retirement home support is needed, in both independent and assisted living environments. From medication reminders to personal care assistance to light housekeeping and more, GEM has experience helping maintain individual’s dignity and enhancing their quality of life. It is always our goal to complement the services available at and delivered by the retirement home’s care team. For additional details on the support we provide in retirement homes, click here. 

 

Does GEM provide palliative and/or private hospice care?

Yes, we have significant experience in assisting individuals seeking a holistic approach to controlling pain and managing other end-of-life symptoms, in a variety of settings including private homes, retirement residences, long term care facilities and hospitals. Our skilled, compassionate hospice team works with other members of an individual’s care team (nurses, doctors, hospital personnel, etc.) to offer integrated care and comfort. 

 

My family member is physically able to take care of their daily needs but seems lonely and isolated. How can GEM help?

In addition to our nursing and personal support worker offerings, GEM also offers companion services to enhance quality of life, accompany individuals to appointments and alleviate worry for family members. These services are particularly valued when it is not possible for friends or loved ones to visit regularly. We can provide companionship services per a schedule tailored to fit the individual’s unique needs, typically with a minimum time commitment of two hours. To find out more, visit our companion services page.  

 

Do you drive clients to appointments?

Insurance requirements dictate that we are not able to provide this service. Our staff can, however, accompany individuals as attendants via Para Transpo and taxis (many fleets include some accessible vans). This service is particularly valued when clients are undergoing medical procedures where they must be accompanied during recovery and the return journey home. We can similarly accompany individuals for shopping and social excursions in instances where they are unable or uncomfortable travelling alone. 

 

What ongoing training do your staff receive?

All staff are trained to succeed in their respective roles. In addition, we offer ongoing skills training as we believe that continuous staff development leads to increased job satisfaction and better retention. Examples include non-violent crisis intervention as well as multiple training modules produced by the Learning Centre of the Ontario Residential Care Association. Collaboration and cooperation are hallmarks of how GEM operates and as a result, knowledge sharing is a key practice throughout our organization. 

 

How will I be billed for home health care services?

Our administrative team will issue each client (or their designate) an itemized monthly invoice, payable in several formats. Because the Canadian home health care system typically operates with a combination of public options and family-funded care, you may be eligible for supplemental support if you have private insurance coverage.  GEM is pleased to offer guidance and support in terms of navigating the insurance system to help you get approval for nursing care, for example. In addition, those with a limited income may quality for the City of Ottawa’s Home Support Services and GEM can help you apply, just as they can for Ontario’s Home and Community Services support.