6 Essential Steps to Getting a License in Home Health Care Services

Updated on July 30, 2020

Are you a healthcare provider looking to take your business to the next level?

If you want to grow your business by providing home health care services, there are a few things you need to begin the process. Although the process is lengthy, it will be worth it in the end.

Read on to learn how to obtain a home health care services license today.

1. Become Familiar with State Regulations

If you want to obtain a license for in-home care services, the first step you need to take is learning about your particular state’s regulations. Depending on which state you live in, you will need to fulfill different requirements.

Before you get a home health care license, make sure you become familiar with the regulations in your state.

2. Pay the Proper Filing Fee

Your state won’t grant your application if you don’t have the proper filing fee. Before you take a trip to the proper government office, do your research and find out how much you need.

3. Obtain Medicaid and Medicare Certifications

If you want your in-home health care services to provide nursing care, physical therapy, and more services paid for by Medicaid and Medicare, you need to obtain the proper certifications.

Keep in mind that this is a lengthy process and can take up to a year or more depending on the state where you live. Start by visiting cms.gov to become familiar with the process and get the proper certifications.

Depending on the state, you might also have to complete a certification exam.

Once you obtain the Medicaid and Medicare certification, you will have to bring a copy with you when you obtain your license.

4. Get the Proper Office

Before you can set up your home health care services, you should have a separate office for client records. The office can be in your home, but in order to comply, it needs to be in a separate room in the house.

The office will be used to keep all of your records and serve as a place for your staff to work during office hours. If you decide to rent a separate office, you should provide a copy of the lease when you file your application.

5. Obtain a Registration Number

If you expect Medicare and Medicaid to pay you for any care you provide patients, you need to incorporate your home health care business, obtain a tax identification number, and provide a National Provider Identification Number (NPI).

After you obtain your NPI, you will be able to get payment from insurance companies.

6. Have a Proper Business Plan

Many states will also ask you for a copy of your business plan when you obtain your license. Ensure you include key elements in your business plan, such as services description, marketing plan, operational plan, and financial plan.

Obtain Your Home Health Care Services License Today

Now that you know the steps to take to obtain a home health care services license, you can take the first step. Start by becoming familiar with the requirements in your state, get the filing fee, obtain a registration number, and create a business plan.

The health care industry changes continuously, and there’s one place where you can stay on top of the latest news. Don’t miss out on the top stories. Take some time to browse through a few more of our blog posts today!

The Editorial Team at Healthcare Business Today is made up of skilled healthcare writers and experts, led by our managing editor, Daniel Casciato, who has over 25 years of experience in healthcare writing. Since 1998, we have produced compelling and informative content for numerous publications, establishing ourselves as a trusted resource for health and wellness information. We offer readers access to fresh health, medicine, science, and technology developments and the latest in patient news, emphasizing how these developments affect our lives.