If you run a caregiver registry, you’ve probably had this moment:
A potential client calls, interested… but unsure. “Wait—so they’re not your employees?” Or: “Another provider told me that sounds risky.”
In a care landscape where traditional W-2 agency language is more common, it’s not surprising that the registry model often requires a bit more explanation. And in some cases, families are hearing about registries for the first time through the lens of a different provider’s perspective.
But here’s the reality: A caregiver registry isn’t less structured or professional—it’s just built differently. Unlike agencies, which may operate in a less personal way with more formal processes and less direct interaction, registries offer flexibility and foster direct relationships between families and caregivers.
This blog is about helping you articulate that difference clearly, confidently, and without comparison. Because the goal isn’t to compete with other models—it’s to help families understand the value of yours.
Registries serve as intermediaries, connecting families with independent caregivers, but do not serve as the employer or direct provider of care services. Operating a registry is a distinct type of home care business, with its own regulatory and operational requirements that set it apart from agencies.
By choosing the registry model, families can tailor care to their loved one's needs, ensuring a personalized approach. Involving the family in the process helps guarantee the best fit for their unique situation.
Home care is an essential service that allows individuals to receive personal assistance and support with daily living activities right in the comfort of their own homes. For many families, this means their loved ones can maintain independence while getting help with meal preparation, light housekeeping, and other important tasks. When exploring home care options, it’s important to understand the differences between a professional home care agency and a caregiver registry. A professional home care agency typically employs caregivers as employees, providing benefits such as liability insurance, unemployment insurance, and direct supervision. In contrast, registries connect families with independent contractors, offering a different level of responsibility and support. Recognizing these differences helps families make informed decisions about the type of service and level of personal responsibility that best fits their needs.
Most families are introduced to home care through traditional agency models. The language is familiar:
When they hear something that sounds different, they may have questions—and sometimes, assumptions. Most people have certain expectations based on the agency model, and the registry model may require a person to adjust those expectations. The person seeking care may not realize the differences in responsibility and involvement required by the registry model.
But that doesn’t mean they’re opposed to caregiver registries. It just means they haven’t heard your side of the story yet.
You don’t need to explain what a registry isn’t. You just need to explain what it is.
Try these positioning shifts:
Say: “We connect clients with independent caregivers we’ve vetted and verified, and we provide tools to support both sides of the relationship. We assist families in finding the right caregiver and help determine the best care plan for their needs.”
Avoid: “We’re not like agencies…” (Comparisons can create confusion or come across as defensive.)
Say: “This model gives families more flexibility and caregivers more autonomy—while still offering structure and professional support.”
Avoid: Over-explaining. Stick to simple language that focuses on benefits.
Say: “You’re in charge—but you’re not alone. We’re here to make the process easy and professional every step of the way. We help establish contact between families and caregivers, making the process smoother and more personal.” This positions you as a trusted connector, not just a directory.
A caregiver registry, sometimes called a home care registry, serves as a bridge between families and independent contractors who offer caregiving services. Unlike home care agencies, registries do not employ caregivers as employees. Instead, they facilitate the hiring process by helping families find, vet, and hire caregivers directly. This means that when you hire through a registry, you often become the caregiver’s employer, taking on certain responsibilities such as managing payroll taxes, conducting background checks, and handling liability for any work-related injuries. While this model offers flexibility and choice, it also requires families to be more involved in the hiring and supervision process. Registries provide valuable services by connecting families with qualified caregivers, but it’s important to understand the unique responsibilities that come with this approach.
Home care agency models are designed to provide families with comprehensive support and peace of mind. Most home care agencies employ caregivers as employees, which means the agency handles every aspect of the hiring process, from background checks and reference verification to payroll taxes and ongoing supervision. Agencies often offer a wide range of services, including personal assistance, meal preparation, and light housekeeping, ensuring that your loved one’s needs are met with professionalism and care. By choosing a home care agency, families benefit from the agency’s expertise, oversight, and financial protections, allowing them to focus on their loved one’s well-being while the agency manages the details.
You don’t have to out-message other providers. If your registry is built with professionalism and clarity, clients will feel it from the first interaction.
Here’s how to reinforce your value operationally:
For example, the registry can help coordinate personal care, medication reminders, meal preparation, companionship, and mobility assistance, showcasing a wide range of support services.
Regulations for home care agencies and registries can vary significantly from state to state. For example, in California, home care aides must be registered with the California Department of Social Services, and agencies are required to meet specific licensing and training standards. These regulations are designed to ensure that caregivers are qualified, trustworthy, and capable of providing high-quality care. When considering a home care agency or registry, families should research their state’s requirements to ensure compliance and safety. Home care agencies often provide guidance and support in navigating these regulations, helping families make informed choices and ensuring that their loved ones receive the best possible care and support.
When people don’t fully understand your model, they fill in the blanks with what they know—or what they’ve heard.
That’s why it’s important to be proactive:
By taking these steps, your registry helps families understand what they are responsible for when using this model.
The truth is, every model of care has its place. What matters most is helping families choose the one that fits their needs—and helping them understand that registries aren’t a lesser option. Just a different one.
Families should be aware of hidden costs that can arise when hiring independently, such as payroll taxes, insurance, and legal liabilities, which can significantly increase the total cost. Understanding the overall cost and knowing who is responsible for pay and other financial obligations when a caregiver is hired through a registry is crucial.
When you run a registry with professionalism, clarity, and intention, you don’t need to compete on messaging. You just need to communicate your value—clearly, consistently, and confidently.