What's it like working for multiple agencies?

[sunnysideRN]

I'm a full-time CM working with the PPV model and my census has been low for months. Generally, my agency keeps me consistently busy but I don't think I can keep waiting for more SOC's. Today I had 3 visits, tomorrow 2. I prefer 5-7 visits per day. I'm thinking of going per diem at another agency to supplement but wanted to hear from someone who has done it. Specifically, how do you track mileage when going from patients of different agencies? How manageable is it having two employers (multiple iPads, phones, case conference meetings, software, policies)? Any insight welcome!

[Zippy83]

You’re full time but PPV? Do you mean that you prefer to have a full schedule and usually do, but are per diem? You can’t be classified as a full time employee but also paid per visit, at least not in my state. Do you receive benefits?

I’m per diem, I work for 3 agencies now, I will probably never go back to single agency as long as I’m PPV.

I accept patients that I want, turn down any too far from my coverage area. I’m able to keep a full schedule but still have a lot of control. I use my own phone always, and my own iPad for two of the agencies, but I do have a dedicated tablet from one of them.

I can be a scatterbrain sometimes but I haven’t had any issues keeping track of communication and policies between agencies. All 3 use different software, and that’s also no problem. I do strongly prefer one software, and keep trying to get the other two companies to switch. ?

Mileage - I get a flat rate per visit, so I don’t have to track.

Meetings and training- I’d better be paid for my time if I’m expected to be there, and whether or not any agency calls a meeting mandatory, they can’t enforce that for per diem. I do make an effort to attend meetings and tradings as my schedule allows.

But I’m also confused about your current arrangement. Can you elaborate? Because if what you are saying is that they expect you to take on the responsibilities of a full time employee, without the benefits of full time employment (including steady, predictable pay regardless of census), then you are being exploited and ripped off. But I may be misunderstanding.

[Kaisu]

Zippy 83 - Off topic, but I am curious. What three software programs do you use and which one do you like the best.. and why? If you don't mind answering.

[Zippy83]

Axxess, Devero, and HospiceMD (I work with two HH and one Hospice)

Axxess is the best software I’ve ever used! Super user friendly, once you input certain info you can override each new note and just change what you need to. Very thorough documentation can be done super quickly.

It’s also very easy to see your daily schedule, monthly schedule, and to bounce around as needed. I can open the POC while completing my visit note without losing anything.

[Kaisu]

Thank you so much. I appreciate the response.