GPS vs Telephony EVV

The 21st Century Cures Act requires EVV but doesn't mandate how you capture location. GPS-based mobile apps and telephony (landline) verification are the two most common methods. Here's how they compare.

GPS-Based EVV (Mobile Apps)

Caregivers use a smartphone app to clock in and out. The app uses GPS to verify the caregiver's location.

Advantages

• Works at any location (home, community, accompaniment)
• Can capture tasks, notes, and signatures
• Real-time visibility for office staff
• No equipment to install at member homes
• Most caregivers already have smartphones
• Supports additional features (messaging, schedules)

Disadvantages

• Requires smartphone with data plan
• GPS can be inaccurate in some buildings
• Depends on caregiver having charged phone
• Some members may have privacy concerns
• Poor cell coverage in rural areas

Telephony EVV (Landline)

Caregivers call a toll-free number from the member's home phone to clock in and out. The system identifies the location based on the phone number.

Advantages

• Works without smartphones
• Reliable location verification via caller ID
• No app installation or training required
• Works in areas with poor cell coverage
• Simple for caregivers who aren't tech-savvy

Disadvantages

• Requires member to have landline (increasingly rare)
• Only works for in-home visits
• Can't capture tasks or signatures
• No real-time visibility
• Cell phone caller ID may not be recognized

Comparison Table

Fixed Device EVV (Third Option)

Some agencies use fixed devices installed in member homes. Caregivers badge in and out using a fob or PIN. This combines reliable location verification with some benefits of digital systems but requires equipment installation and maintenance.

Which Should You Choose?

GPS mobile EVV works best when:

• Your caregivers have smartphones
• You provide community-based services
• You want real-time visibility and task documentation
• Your members don't have landlines

Telephony EVV works best when:

• Your caregivers don't have smartphones
• All services are in-home only
• Your member population has landlines
• You operate in areas with poor cell coverage

Hybrid Approach

Many agencies use both methods. GPS mobile is the default, with telephony as a backup for members without smartphones or when GPS isn't practical. This gives you flexibility while maintaining compliance.