Each jurisdiction may set different requirements for obtaining a home care license. In most places, however, you will have to apply with an organization such as the Department of Health for this type of licensing. The application process often involves training, orientation, and background checks. You will likely have to submit to an inspection of your facilities and records as well. Additionally, most jurisdictions charge a fee for home care licensing.
The requirements you’ll have to meet to secure a home care license will typically depend on your jurisdiction. Since licensing requirements and procedures do vary, it is typically best to start with seeking information from the organization responsible for home care licensing in your jurisdiction. In some places, this organization is referred to as the Department of Health and Human Services. Other jurisdictions may have a similar organization that handles this type of licensing but call it by a different name.
Depending on the jurisdiction in which you are seeking licensing, you may also have to obtain training in providing home care. Many jurisdictions will provide information about the approved training programs or centers you may use to fulfill this requirement. Some may also require you to attend an orientation provided by the organization that grants licensing. In some jurisdictions, you may also need a degree and related experience to be eligible for this type of licensing.
In most places, you will have to submit to a background check to obtain a home care license. This will likely include a check of your criminal history. These checks are important for ensuring that home care clients have less risk of suffering physical, emotional, or financial abuse.
After you fulfill your jurisdiction's training requirements, you will typically have to complete an application to obtain a home care license. You may find this application on the licensing organization's website, or you may contact the organization to receive one by mail. In most cases, you also will have to pay a fee as part of the application process.
You will usually have to submit to an inspection of the properties you will operate when you are seeking a home care license as well. The licensing organization will often send a representative to complete this inspection. The home care licensing inspection typically evaluates not only the safety and suitability of the premises, but also your records. For example, the inspector may want to see the records that concern your employees and the responsibilities they may have in your home care business as well as your budget and pricing information. After you receive a home care license, you may have to submit to periodic inspections and evaluations as well.
