How do I know if distance calculations are correct?
Distances are calculated using the caregiver's last known address and their preferred transportation mode (or default: public transit in major metros, car elsewhere). These are estimates and may vary based on traffic, routing, or outdated address information.
Why does it say a caregiver lives 5 minutes away when they actually live 25 minutes away?
This can happen if:
- The caregiver's address in HHAeXchange hasn't been updated
- The system is using a straight-line estimate instead of drive time
- Traffic conditions aren't factored in
Why don’t we prioritize the shortest distance?
Distance is one of many factors in the matching algorithm, but it is not the only consideration. The system also takes into account:
- Prior experience with the patient (highest priority)
- Availability and schedule conflicts
- Credentials and patient requirements, such as bedbound or Hoyer lift
- Caregiver preferences and comfort level with patient needs, such as preference for short shifts or pets
- Overtime considerations
- Equitable distribution of hours across caregivers
This ensures that caregivers are matched not just by proximity, but by overall suitability and patient continuity.
Is there a map I can view in the product?
No, there is currently no map view in the product. However, coordinators can use the caregiver and patient addresses displayed in the system and reference Google Maps or other mapping tools to visualize locations if needed.
Can I see shifts of caregivers while they are working close together?
There isn't currently a specific view that shows shifts clustered geographically. However, the matching algorithm does take proximity into consideration—if a caregiver has other shifts scheduled nearby on the same day, those work locations are factored into the distance calculation to minimize travel time between shifts.