Government agencies determine licensing procedures for their jurisdiction. Requirements depend upon types of services offered and whether the services are considered skilled or unskilled. Other requirements are based upon whether services involve supervision of clients or direct patient care activities. Services may include nursing care, personal care assistance, therapies and more.

Get Started

Start by contacting your state authority. Obtain the initial application required for your jurisdiction. Depending upon services offered, you may need to obtain a labratory license or waiver. You may also need to obtain a contract to handle bio-hazardous waste. A home health business must have a comprehensive business plan that addresses financing, organizational structure, marketing and mission. The U.S. Small Business Administration and your local chamber of commerce can provide assistance with this step. Obtain a business permit and register the name of your business. Obtain financing. Start with the bank where you have accounts. Many banks and lending institutions offer financial through the U.S. Small Business Administration, or SBA, guaranteed loan programs (see Resources). Also contact your local small business association and chamber of commerce to find out about grants, low-interest loans and other resources available in your community.

Employees

Consider hiring a consultant that is knowledgeable about setting up home health care agencies in your state. A good consultant can simplify the process and expedite development of manuals that you will need in order to comply with state and federal laws. A personnel manual that documents hiring, orientation and training materials is required. Record how you will provide background checks, drug screens, reference checks and education for potential employees. Have policies in place that demonstrate how you will verify licenses, and health screening information of workers. States often require that caregivers pass classes in CPR, infection control, HIV, Alzheimer's disease, domestic violence and continuing education. Find out what your state requires for your agency to be in compliance. Recruit an administrator and alternate administrator. Obtain a background search for the administrator and alternate administrator.

Policy and Procedures

Create an office manual. Include a mission statement, organizational chart, infection control procedures, and a quality control plan. Establish a fee schedule. It is essential that you Include a privacy statement in order to comply with strict federal regulations. Contact the Emergency Management Division of your state (see Resources). Develop an emergency management plan. Obtain required documents for assessing and registering clients with special health needs. Develop a plan for handling customer complaints. Include information about whom and how to contact regarding reports of abuse, exploitation and neglect.

Licensing

Complete and submit initial paperwork and fees required by your jurisdiction. The governing authority will schedule a time for your initial inspection. A surveyor will meet at your office, interview you and inspect your manuals. Be forthright and answer questions to the best of your ability. If you are not sure of something, ask the surveyor. After the inspection, you may be provided with written suggestions needed for further compliance. When all requirements are met, you will be granted your license. Delays in obtaining licensure are common. Plan for some leeway in scheduling opening day.

Source:

Florida Health Finder

Visiting Homecare Policy and Procedure Manual ,Melbourne Florida, 2009

Aging offices by State

More Information:

OSHA Standards / Frequently Cited Standards

U.S. Small Business Administration: Guaranteed Loan Programs

FEMA: State Offices and Agencies of Emergency Management