Home Health Care Agency vs Nurse Registry - What is the Difference

Do you know the difference?

HOME HEALTH AGENCY vs. NURSE REGISTRY

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE

Home Health Agencies provide caregiver services. They hire their own employees. All employees are under the management and supervision of agency staff, including Registered Nurses. The agency is responsible for workers compensation insurance, employer FICA, federal withholding taxes, and unemployment taxes. In most cases, agencies carry general liability insurance. The employer (agency) is responsible for all risks associated with work performed by the employee.

Nurse Registries provide caregiver services. These workers (independent contractors) are directed to care for clients, they are not employed by the agency. The registry is not responsible for workers compensation insurance, FICA, federal withholding taxes, and unemployment taxes. Independent contractors must maintain their own employment benefits/taxes/liability insurance. There is no agency insurance coverage for liability or theft in the home.

The difference between Home Health Agencies and Nurse Registries is the employment relationship. Home Health Agencies provide caregiver employees who are covered with all the insurance and protection. Nurse Registries provide caregiver independent contractors who are not insured or protected by the agency.