Do you ever wonder why we request that Meals-on-Wheels volunteers follow specific protocols and procedures? It’s because, in addition to delivering nutritious meals, volunteers provide a critical wellness check to ensure our clients’ safety and well-being.
Through these four steps, our Alliance of associates and volunteers are able to look after all clients, restoring their sense of stability and self-reliance.
1.Obtaining Client Signatures and Time Stamps: We ask volunteers to obtain client signatures to validate that a client is doing well. Signatures are also required from our funders for our agency to receive meal reimbursements. Clients are aware that their signature is required to receive their meals. In the event that there is a client concern, the time stamp is important to verify at what time the client was doing okay.
2. Providing Meals Directly to Clients: Occasionally, clients may leave a note to place the meal outside. Our goal, however, is client safety and well-being. Please disregard client notes and only follow the instructions as listed on the delivery record. You should have direct contact with each client on the route unless otherwise noted on the delivery record. If a client does not answer the door, please scan the QR code, found on the orange pouch or on the clipboard, to inform our team that the client is not at home. Make sure you also check “no” on the delivery record to indicate that the meal was not delivered.
3. Providing Client Updates: We welcome and encourage you to be our “eyes and ears” and let us know about client concerns. Please alert us when you see any unusual behavior or changes. Give us a call or write notes on the delivery record if the client requests to receive other LifeCare Alliance services or to pause meal deliveries. Please remember NOT to provide any client identifiable information (name, address, etc) in an email as that is against HIPAA rules. If it’s necessary to provide direct client information, you may do so via a phone call or via a secured transmittal mechanism such as the QR Code on the orange pouch.
4.Emergency Procedures: In the event of an emergency, Being There Matters™. If a client has a medical emergency, call 911 and then also call our office so that we can notify the client’s emergency contact. We understand that it may seem helpful to move or assist a client, but, to prevent further injury, volunteers should NEVER move a client. For the care of the client, follow these procedures even if a client asks not to notify emergency services.
To join the Alliance and be there for the clients in our community, email volunteer@lifecarealliance.org.
Additional Articles from the April 2024 Newsletter
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