1st Base · Positive CAHPS Response Rate

Know Your CAHPS

Everything you need in one place. Start by choosing your service line — the survey and the language are different for Home Health and Hospice.

Home Health · Real-Time Feedback
Open Real-Time Feedback

Also printed on the back flap of the home health guidebook.

Why it matters

Helps identify concerns early and support timely service recovery
Strengthens communication with patients and caregivers
Gives leaders visibility into the patient experience
Recognizes staff who demonstrate exceptional compassion and service
Helps improve care for future patients and families

What can I say?

What should I avoid saying?

Instead of

Asking someone to give you a specific rating or answer.

Try

Invite honest feedback: “your honest feedback is completely voluntary and highly appreciated.”

Instead of

Offering or implying a reward, gift, or favor for completing a survey.

Try

Explain the purpose: their feedback helps us learn, grow, and improve care.

Instead of

Asking to see, fill in, or help complete the survey.

Try

Let them know it is confidential and completely their own.

Instead of

Pressuring, repeating the request, or making it feel like a favor to you.

Try

Offer it once, warmly, and thank them in advance.

Instead of

Discussing scores, ratings, stars, or agency performance with a patient or family.

Try

Keep the conversation about their experience and their voice.

Keep it voluntary and confidential. Never suggest how someone should answer, never offer anything in exchange for a response, never ask to see their answers, and never single out a member for a high score.