How do I choose a home care agency in Rochester and Monroe County?

OnNovember 8, 2026
InBlog

By the Priority Cares Home Services team · Updated October 28, 2026

To choose a home care agency in Rochester and Monroe County, review the list from Monroe County’s Department of Human Services, check the NY State Department of Health’s NYS Health Profiles for quality and safety information, and consider consulting Monroe County’s NY Connects for unbiased referrals.

Key fact: Monroe County’s Department of Human Services has a Home Care Services Unit that oversees Medicaid home care programs, including the Personal Care Assistance Program; home care services for Medicaid recipients include home health aide or personal care service, a personal emergency response system, and housekeeping. (Monroe County Department of Human Services)

What information is available on the Monroe County list?

The Monroe County list includes agencies approved to provide home care services for Medicaid recipients, such as home health aides, personal care services, and housekeeping. These services are overseen by the Department of Human Services, ensuring that agencies adhere to Medicaid standards. The list also includes contact information for each agency, allowing you to reach out directly to ask questions or schedule a visit.

How can I check an agency’s quality and safety?

To check an agency’s quality and safety, visit the NY State Department of Health’s NYS Health Profiles site. This site provides detailed information about each agency, including their licensing status, any recent violations, and customer satisfaction scores. This information can help you make an informed decision about which agency to choose for your home care needs in Rochester and Monroe County.

What role does NY Connects play in choosing a home care agency?

NY Connects is the designated Aging and Disability Resource Center for Monroe County. They offer conflict-free, unbiased information and assistance about long-term services and supports. NY Connects can help you understand the different options available and guide you in choosing a home care agency that meets your specific needs. They can also help you navigate the process of obtaining home care services through your Local Department of Social Services or an MLTC plan.

Are there any restrictions on choosing a home care agency?

Under federal Medicaid rules, beneficiaries have the right to choose any qualified and willing agency to provide their services, with some exceptions for Medicaid managed care plans. If you are enrolled in an MLTC plan, your choices may be limited to agencies that participate in that plan. However, you can still receive services through your Local Department of Social Services or by selecting an MLTC plan that offers more options. New York Medicaid Choice provides information on when MLTC enrollment becomes mandatory.

Frequently Asked Questions

What services does a home care agency provide?

Home care agencies provide services such as home health aide or personal care services, personal emergency response systems, and housekeeping. These services help individuals maintain their independence and quality of life in their own homes.

How do I know if an agency is licensed?

To ensure an agency is licensed, check the NY State Department of Health’s NYS Health Profiles site. This site provides information on each agency’s licensing status and any recent compliance issues.

Can I switch home care agencies?

Yes, you can switch home care agencies, but the process may vary depending on your Medicaid plan. If you are in an MLTC plan, you may need to choose from participating agencies. Otherwise, you can select an agency from the Monroe County list.

What if I need help understanding my options?

Monroe County’s NY Connects provides unbiased information and assistance about long-term services and supports. They can help you understand your options and guide you in choosing the right home care agency for your needs.

Sources

Talk with our team to learn more about how we can support your home care needs. Call (585) 444-9245 or reach us at https://prioritycareshs.com/home-care-monroe-county-ny/.