Location Settings
CareCade uses location services to verify you're at appointment locations and track mileage. Learn how location tracking works and how to manage your settings.
Why Location Is Used
Appointment Verification
Location helps verify:
- You're at the client's location for clock-in
- Service was provided at the right place
- Accurate records are maintained
- Compliance requirements are met
Mileage Tracking
If enabled, location tracks:
- Routes between appointments
- Distance traveled
- Automatic mileage logging
- Reimbursement support
Not Continuous Tracking
Location is typically only used:
- When clocking in/out
- During mileage recording
- When you're using the app
- Not 24/7 surveillance
Location Permissions
Enabling Location
To use location features:
iPhone:
- Go to Settings → Privacy & Security → Location Services
- Find CareCade
- Select "While Using the App"
Android:
- Go to Settings → Apps → CareCade
- Tap Permissions
- Select Location
- Choose "Allow only while using the app"
Permission Options
| Setting | What It Means |
|---|---|
| While Using | Location accessed when app is open |
| Always | Location can be accessed anytime (may not be needed) |
| Never | Location disabled (some features won't work) |
Recommended Setting
"While Using the App" is usually sufficient and protects your privacy while enabling necessary features.
How Location Verification Works
At Clock-In
When you clock in:
- App checks your location
- Compares to client's address
- If within range, clock-in proceeds
- If outside range, may prompt you
Location Radius
Organizations set a radius:
- Typically 500-1000 feet
- Accounts for GPS variation
- May be larger for rural areas
- Check with your administrator
GPS Accuracy
Location accuracy depends on:
- Device quality
- Outdoor vs. indoor
- Building interference
- Weather conditions
Location Settings in App
Finding Settings
- Go to Settings
- Look for Location or Privacy
- View location options
Available Settings
Depending on your organization:
- Location for Clock-In: On/Off
- Mileage Tracking: On/Off
- High Accuracy Mode: Uses more battery
- Location History: View past locations
Troubleshooting Location
"Not Near Location" at Clock-In
If you're at the right place but get this error:
-
Check GPS signal
- Go outside briefly
- Wait for better signal
- Move away from large buildings
-
Check address
- Verify you're at correct address
- Client's address may be wrong in system
-
Refresh location
- Close and reopen app
- Toggle location off and on
- Wait a moment and retry
-
Request override
- If available, request manual override
- Explain the situation
- Administrator can approve
Location Won't Enable
If location isn't working:
- Check phone settings
- Verify CareCade has permission
- Check if location services are on
- Restart your phone
- Update the app
Battery Drain
If location uses too much battery:
- Use "While Using" not "Always"
- Disable high accuracy mode
- Close app when not using
- Check for app updates
Inaccurate Location
If location seems wrong:
- Go outdoors for better signal
- Wait for GPS to stabilize
- Check Wi-Fi/cellular connection
- Restart location services
Privacy Considerations
What's Tracked
CareCade typically tracks:
- Location at clock-in/out
- Route for mileage (if enabled)
- Timestamps
What's NOT Tracked
Usually not tracked:
- Location when app is closed
- Personal trips
- Off-duty movement
- Continuous location
Who Sees Location Data
Location information is visible to:
- Administrators
- Authorized personnel
- Used for verification only
- Subject to privacy policies
Your Privacy Rights
You have the right to:
- Know what's tracked
- Understand how it's used
- Report concerns
- Ask questions
Location Best Practices
For Accurate Clock-In
- Enable location before arriving
- Check GPS signal
- Be at service location
- Allow moment for GPS lock
For Mileage
- Enable auto-tracking if wanted
- Review logged routes
- Edit if incorrect
- Report issues
Battery Management
- Use "While Using" permission
- Close app when not working
- Keep phone charged
- Update app regularly
When Location Is Required
Organization Policy
Some organizations require:
- Location for all clock-ins
- Location verification always on
- Mileage tracking enabled
- Check your policy
Compliance Requirements
Location may be needed for:
- State regulations
- Medicaid compliance
- Billing verification
- Quality assurance
Consequences of Disabling
If you disable required location:
- May not be able to clock in
- May need supervisor override
- May affect compliance
- Check with administrator
Common Questions
Is my location tracked all day?
No - only when using the app for work functions like clock-in/out or mileage tracking.
Can I turn off location?
You can, but some features may not work. Required features vary by organization.
What if GPS is wrong?
Request override, document the issue, and report to administrator.
Does it track personal trips?
No - location is only active when you're using work features.
Who can see my location?
Only authorized administrators, and only for work verification purposes.