Do private, non-agency caregivers need a license in Ohio?
Yes, in most professional capacities, private, or non-agency, caregivers in Ohio need a license. Since a law went into effect in July 2022, any self-employed individual who provides non-medical home health services to more than two people per year must be licensed by the Ohio Department of Health (ODH).
To become a licensed non-agency provider, you must:
- Submit a completed application and a $250 fee to the ODH.
- Provide fingerprint impressions for a background check.
- Submit proof of Ohio residency for the past five consecutive years.
- Have proof of completion for required training, first aid, and CPR.
- Show a valid W-9 and Social Security card.
Family caregiver exception One key exemption to the individual licensing requirement is for immediate family members who provide care. While many family caregivers are not required to be licensed, those seeking payment through state programs, such as Medicaid waiver programs, must meet specific certification requirements and background checks administered by the Ohio Department of Aging (ODA).
What are the requirements for caregivers employed by an agency?
If you are employed by a home health agency in Ohio, you do not need to obtain an individual license. Instead, your employer must hold a valid license from the Ohio Department of Health. The agency is responsible for ensuring all its caregivers and home health aides (HHAs) meet state-required training and background check standards.
Requirements for agency-employed caregivers include:
- Background Checks: You must undergo an Ohio Bureau of Investigations (BCI) background check.
- Training: Depending on the client and the services offered, training requirements can vary. For example, HHAs providing services through Medicaid or the PASSPORT program need 75 hours of training, including 16 hours of clinical experience.
- Certification: For certain roles, such as personal care aides (PCAs) in Medicaid programs, you may need certification and to pass a competency evaluation.
Certification versus licensing: What's the difference?
In the caregiving field, the terms "licensing" and "certification" are often used interchangeably, but in Ohio, they have distinct legal meanings, particularly for independent providers and agency workers.
Comparison Table: Licensing vs. Certification in Ohio
| Feature | Caregiver Licensing (ODH) | Caregiver Certification (ODA/Medicaid) |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Legal authorization from the state for independent providers serving more than two clients or for the operation of a home care agency. | Formal recognition of an individual's skills and training, often required for working with clients in Medicaid waiver programs. |
| Governing Body | Ohio Department of Health (ODH). | Ohio Department of Aging (ODA), Ohio Department of Medicaid, or other state entities. |
| Who Needs It | Independent (non-agency) providers serving more than two clients and all home care agencies. | Caregivers assisting clients through state-funded programs, such as Medicaid waivers. |
| Process | Apply through the ODH, submit background check fingerprints, and provide documentation of residency and training. | Complete a state-approved training program, pass a competency exam, and register with the appropriate department. |
| Renewal | Home health licenses from ODH must be renewed every three years. | Renewal requirements vary by program, often including mandatory continuing education. |
What are the rules for providing only homemaker or companion services?
For professional, non-agency caregivers providing only non-medical services, such as homemaking or companionship, a license from the ODH is still required if you serve more than two clients per year. However, if your work is informal, occasional, or restricted to very few clients, you may not need a license. It is always best to consult the Ohio Revised Code or seek legal advice to ensure compliance.
The importance of training even when a license isn't required
Even if a specific situation does not mandate a state license, obtaining formal training is a best practice for all professional caregivers. Training equips caregivers with critical skills in safety, personal care, and emergency response, improving the quality of care and increasing client confidence. Home health agencies, for example, typically require their employees to complete specific training modules, and voluntary certifications in areas like CPR and dementia care are highly valued.
Conclusion
To determine if you need a license to be a caregiver in Ohio, you must assess your employment situation and the services you provide. Independent, non-agency providers assisting more than two people are required to be licensed by the Ohio Department of Health. Caregivers working for a licensed agency are covered by the agency's license but must still meet training and certification requirements. While immediate family members are often exempt, specific certification is required for participation in paid state programs. For any professional caregiver, securing the necessary credentials ensures compliance and demonstrates a commitment to providing high-quality care for Ohio residents. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, it is always best to consult the official websites of the Ohio Department of Health and the Ohio Department of Aging.
