The questions Philly families ask first.
Plain-English answers to the questions we hear on the phone every week. If something's missing, just call.
Getting started
How quickly can home care start?
Most families have a caregiver in the home within a week of the first call, sometimes the same week. Private pay starts fastest because there's no insurance authorization step.
What happens after I call?
We listen to what's going on, ask a few questions, and offer a free in-home visit if it's a fit.
Where do you serve?
Montgomery, Chester, Bucks, Delaware counties, and Philadelphia. Headquartered in Norristown. See full service areas →
What if my loved one resists the idea?
Most do, at first. We're patient. We start small (a few hours, a few days a week) and let the relationship build before pushing for more.
Costs & payment
What does private-pay home care cost?
Rates vary based on hours, schedule, and care level. In the Philadelphia area, private pay typically runs $30 to $40/hr for non-medical support. We give a real quote on the first call.
Do you accept Medicaid waivers?
Yes. We're an approved Pennsylvania ODP provider and work with several Medicaid waivers. See the ODP page for details →
Are there contracts?
No long-term contracts. We earn the relationship every week. Cancel anytime.
Are there hidden fees?
No. The hourly rate we quote is the rate we charge, with documented adjustments for nights, weekends, and holidays disclosed up front.
ODP services
What is ODP?
The Office of Developmental Programs is a part of the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services. ODP funds Medicaid waivers that pay for supports for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and autism.
Are you actually approved?
Yes. We're an approved Pennsylvania ODP provider. Approval is verified through the state.
How do I know if my loved one qualifies?
Eligibility is determined by your county's Administrative Entity. If your loved one already has a Supports Coordinator, they can connect you. If not, call us and we'll point you to the right starting place.
Caregivers & training
Are caregivers trained and background-checked?
Yes. Every caregiver is background-checked and trained. ODP caregivers complete additional state-required training.
Will my loved one have the same caregiver each visit?
Yes. We hand-match a primary caregiver and keep a backup for when life happens.
What if it's not a good fit?
Tell us. We re-match. Personality fit matters as much as skill, and we don't take it personally.
Do you offer bilingual caregivers?
Yes. We have bilingual (Spanish/English) caregivers and we're always hiring more.
What kind of training do caregivers complete?
Onboarding training before any solo shift, plus ongoing training in HIPAA, infection control, fall prevention, body mechanics, mandated reporting, dementia care, and more. ODP caregivers complete additional ODP-specific modules.
Hours & service area
What is the minimum number of hours?
We typically start at five hours per visit so caregivers can do real, meaningful work.
Do you offer overnight or live-in care?
Yes. Awake-overnight and live-in arrangements are both available.
Are you open on weekends?
Yes. We answer the phone Mon-Sun, 9 AM to 5 PM, and provide care seven days a week.
Do you go outside the four counties listed?
Sometimes, depending on the situation. Call and we'll be honest about whether we're a fit.
For caregivers looking for work
Are you hiring?
Always. Apply on the careers page →
What pay can I expect?
Fair, competitive pay. We value the work caregivers do and offer competitive hourly rates based on experience, availability, shift type, and role requirements.
What kind of experience do I need?
We hire based on heart, reliability, and willingness to learn. Health & Happiness Homecare is strictly non-medical, so prior medical certifications aren't required.