Client References?????

Published

I have worked in home health care with a particular company for about a year and am seeking additional hours through another company. The company I work for "does not give references" as stated in their handbook. It is a long story, however I had a client ask me to use them as a reference. I really sat uneasy with this, however if you work private duty or cannot get a reference from your employer, is it ever okay to use a client as a reference? ...Is that even legal?????

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in Critical Care, Education.

Hmm - I'm not a legal expert, but from an ethical standpoint, it seems like this is a really gray area. If you were working as an independent contractor you are employed by that patient it seems like you could arrange that sort of thing, as long as you didn't violate HIPAA. BUT, since your contact with the patient was due to your position as an employee of that organization, you are ethically and professionally bound to abide by their rules of employment.

If a potential employer asks for a reference from your current employer, just inform them about your employer's policy. Give them contact information and they can check it out for themselves if they have questions. FWIW, it is not unusual for an employer to restrict "reference' information to only dates of employment & eligibility for rehire.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in Critical Care, ED, Cath lab, CTPAC,Trauma.

While the company does not give references is there someone you worked with that would give you a personal reference?

Just a quick vent here ...how in blazes does a company refuse references does this mean they will not verify employment? What is wrong with everyone today????

I had a boss that loved me tell me this once I was Godsmacked....I thought what the heck???? What are you afraid of????

OP I would avoid using clients it is a touchy spot....your company can say you violated HIPAA.....or patient confidentiality.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

Thank you for the reply. This client no longer has the agency I work for. I didn't know if that makes a difference. I wasn't sure if it was a HIPPA violation because they offered. But I suppose it's really hairy and not worth a potential infraction.

I think they won't give references do to competitors, in my opinion.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
+ Join the Discussion