1. Make sure your agency is licensed by the state.
Home health agencies must be licensed by the state in order to provide home health services. The agency should have a current license, and should be able to provide proof of licensure upon request.
2. Follow all state and federal regulations.
Home health agencies must follow all state and federal regulations in order to remain in compliance. The agency should have a complete understanding of all relevant regulations, and should ensure that all staff members are aware of these regulations.
3. Keep accurate records of patient care.
Home health agencies must keep accurate records of all patient care activities. These records must be complete and up-to-date, and should be available for review upon request.
4. Maintain up-to-date policies and procedures.
Home health agencies must have current policies and procedures in place in order to ensure compliance with all regulations. These policies and procedures should be reviewed on a regular basis, and should be updated as needed.
5. Train staff on current regulations.
Home health agencies must provide training to all staff members on current regulations. This training should be conducted on a regular basis, and should be documented in order to ensure compliance.
6. Conduct regular audits to ensure compliance.
Home health agencies should conduct regular audits in order to identify any areas of noncompliance. These audits should be conducted by an external entity, and should be documented in order to maintain transparency.
7. Report any noncompliance immediately.
Home health agencies must report any instances of noncompliance to the appropriate authorities immediately. Failure to do so could result in serious penalties, including loss of licensure.
8. Protect patient privacy rights.
Home health agencies must take measures to protect the privacy rights of all patients. All staff members should be trained on patient privacy rights, and should be aware of how to properly handle protected information.
9. Use only authorized personnel to provide care.
Home health agencies should use only authorized personnel to provide care. These individuals should be properly trained and licensed, and should be able to provide proof of certification upon request.
10. Store and dispose of medical waste properly.
Home health agencies must store and dispose of all medical waste in a safe and proper manner. All staff members should be trained on proper medical waste disposal procedures, and should follow these procedures at all times.