After the Ink Is Dry: How to Make the Most of M&A in Home-Based Care

M&A activity in home-based care is picking up again, with organizations seeking scale to navigate regulatory complexity and remain competitive. But while closing the deal feels like a finish line, the real work begins after the ink is dry. Successful integration requires intentional communication, cultural alignment and a focus on people.

In this episode of Transcending Home Care, Transcend Strategy Group’s Chief Strategy Officer, Tony Kudner, talks with Emily Kraeter, senior vice president of human resources at national home care company TheKey. Emily has been on both sides of M&A – from leading HR through a merger to managing the people side of acquisitions for a large home-based care organization.

Emily shares lessons learned about building trust with staff during uncertain times, the importance of cultural assessments, and how to support both frontline caregivers and leaders during integration. She emphasizes why honest communication – even when the answers aren’t what people want to hear – is critical to retaining talent and maintaining quality care.

Whether you’re planning an acquisition or preparing to be acquired, this episode offers actionable insights on how to keep your people engaged, supported and aligned through change.