What are the requirements to be a caregiver in Ohio? A Comprehensive Guide

According to the Ohio Department of Health, the regulatory framework for caregivers varies significantly depending on the type of care provided and whether the caregiver works for an agency or independently. So, what are the requirements to be a caregiver in Ohio? This guide covers the specific rules for different caregiving roles, from non-medical to state-tested nursing assistants, to help you navigate the process effectively.

Quick Summary

Caregiver requirements in Ohio depend on the specific role, with regulations differing for agency-employed, independent, or family providers. Many roles require specific training hours, state-approved certifications, and federal and state background checks, especially for work involving Medicaid waivers. Rules for unlicensed, non-medical caregivers are less stringent, but professional training is always recommended.

Key Points

• Diverse Requirements: Caregiver requirements in Ohio vary significantly based on the client's funding source (e.g., Medicaid) and the level of care provided, with separate rules for agency, independent, and STNA roles.

• Training for Paid Roles: Paid caregivers working under state-funded programs, like Personal Care Aides (PCAs) in the PASSPORT waiver program, must complete specific pre-service training (e.g., 30 hours) and ongoing annual education (e.g., 6 hours).

• STNA Certification: To become a State-Tested Nursing Assistant (STNA), you must complete a 75-hour state-approved training program (including clinical experience), pass a competency exam, and be listed on the Ohio Nurse Aide Registry.

• Mandatory Background Checks: All paid caregivers in Ohio who work with licensed agencies or receive state funding must pass a BCI criminal records check and an FBI check if they've resided out of state within the past five years.

• Independent Provider Rules: Independent caregivers working for individuals with developmental disabilities must meet DODD's requirements, including age, education (HS diploma/GED), First Aid/CPR certification, and specific training.

• Licensing for Non-Agency Providers: Non-agency providers who care for more than two non-family individuals on a self-employed basis must apply for a license from the Ohio Department of Health.

• Family Caregiver Flexibility: Regulations are generally less formal for unpaid family caregivers, but if compensated through certain state programs, they must still meet minimum eligibility criteria and reside with the care recipient.

Ohio's Regulatory Landscape for Caregivers

Ohio's regulations for caregivers are not uniform and depend largely on the care setting, funding source, and required medical care level. The Ohio Department of Health (ODH) and the Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities (DODD) are key bodies overseeing specific caregiver certifications.

Requirements for Non-Medical and Agency Caregivers

Non-medical caregiver requirements vary by employment type. Private-pay caregivers not working through a state-licensed agency generally have no mandated state training requirements, though agencies and clients often require First Aid and CPR and a background check. Non-agency providers caring for more than two individuals need an ODH license. Medicaid-funded Personal Care Aides (PCAs) require 30 hours of pre-service training and six hours of annual in-service training. All paid caregivers for licensed agencies or state-funded programs must pass criminal background checks, including BCI and FBI checks.

The Path to Becoming a State-Tested Nursing Assistant (STNA)

Becoming an STNA allows for work in various healthcare settings.

• Complete Training: An STNA program must be ODH-approved and include at least 75 total hours (59+ classroom/skills, 16+ clinical).
• Pass Exam: A state-approved competency exam (written/oral and skills) is required.
• Registry Listing: Passing the exam places you on the Ohio Nurse Aide Registry.
• Maintain Status: STNAs need 12 hours of in-service training yearly and 7.5 hours of paid work every two years.

Special Requirements for Independent and Family Caregivers

Independent providers, especially those serving individuals with developmental disabilities or compensated through certain programs, have specific requirements. Family caregiver rules are generally more flexible.

Independent Providers (Developmental Disabilities)

• Age/Education: Must be 18+ with a high school diploma or GED.
• Training/Certification: Includes DODD orientation, provider certification training, and First Aid/CPR with a hands-on component.
• Background Checks: BCI and FBI checks are required, along with consent to RAPBACK.

Family Caregivers Family members providing care, particularly under programs like Structured Family Caregiving, may have different requirements. They often must be 18+, live with the care recipient, and enroll with an approved provider. Training may be involved, and some programs offer compensation, requiring formal enrollment and meeting service requirements.

Comparison Table: Caregiver Requirements in Ohio

Type of Caregiver	Typical Employer	Training Requirements	Certification/Testing	Key Requirements	Oversight	Eligibility for State Funds
Non-Medical (Private-Pay)	Individual/Client	Varies by employer; none mandated by state.	Generally none, but often First Aid/CPR required by clients/agencies.	Background check recommended, but only required for agency-employed.	None (if under 2 clients) / ODH (if over 2 clients).	No.
Personal Care Aide (Medicaid)	State-certified agency, or independent provider.	Initial: 30 hours, per HB 33. Annual: 6 hours continuing education.	Competency evaluation through approved program.	Age 18+, background check, residency, training.	Ohio Department of Aging (ODA).	Yes (under specific waiver programs).
Independent Provider (DODD)	Self-employed	DODD online orientation, 8 hours initial provider training, First Aid/CPR.	DODD Certification.	Age 18+, diploma/GED, background check, residency.	Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities (DODD).	Yes (under specific waiver programs).
State-Tested Nursing Assistant (STNA)	Long-term care facility, home health agency, hospital.	75+ hours (including 59+ didactic, 16+ clinical).	State-approved exam (written & skills test).	Age 16+, high school diploma/GED may be required by program, background check.	Ohio Department of Health (ODH).	Yes.

Conclusion

Understanding Ohio's varied caregiver regulations is crucial, as requirements differ significantly based on the role and funding. While non-medical private-pay roles have minimal state mandates, background checks are almost universally required for paid positions. Your chosen caregiving path will dictate the specific training and certification needed. For more information, visit the Ohio Department of Health's website.

Final Checklist for Aspiring Ohio Caregivers

• Determine Career Path: Decide on your role (independent, agency, STNA, etc.).
• Verify Eligibility: Meet age and residency requirements (typically 18+ and Ohio resident).
• Complete Training: Enroll in the correct program (e.g., 30 hours for Medicaid PCAs, 75 hours for STNAs).
• Pass Exams: Complete required competency exams, if applicable.
• Obtain Certifications: Get First Aid and CPR, often needed for independent/waiver roles.
• Undergo Background Checks: Complete BCI and FBI checks.
• Apply and Register: Submit required documents and fees to the relevant state agency.
• Plan for Continuing Education: Meet annual training requirements.

Following these steps ensures you meet Ohio's standards for a caregiving career.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does an unlicensed caregiver in Ohio need to be certified?

No, non-medical caregivers who are not employed by a licensed agency or funded by a state waiver program do not have state-mandated certification requirements. However, professional certification is highly recommended and often required by clients or agencies.

What is the training requirement for a Personal Care Aide under Ohio's PASSPORT program?

Personal Care Aides working under the PASSPORT program must complete 30 hours of pre-service training acceptable to the Ohio Department of Aging and six hours of annual in-service training to maintain eligibility.

What is the difference between a caregiver and an STNA in Ohio?

An STNA (State-Tested Nursing Assistant) has completed a state-approved 75-hour training program, passed a state competency exam, and is listed on the Ohio Nurse Aide Registry. A caregiver is a broader term, and many non-medical caregivers do not have state-mandated training or certifications, especially if they are private-pay or informal providers.

Are background checks required for all caregivers in Ohio?

Yes, criminal background checks are required for all compensated caregivers working for licensed agencies, funded through state waiver programs, or employed in state-regulated healthcare facilities. This typically includes both a state-level BCI and federal-level FBI check.

Can I be an independent caregiver in Ohio without an agency?

Yes, you can be an independent caregiver, but there are important distinctions based on your role. If you provide non-medical services to more than two individuals on a self-employed basis, you must apply for a license from the Ohio Department of Health. Independent providers for developmental disabilities must meet DODD certification criteria.

What happens if a caregiver's certification lapses in Ohio?

For roles like STNA, if eligibility lapses (e.g., by not working for pay for at least 7.5 hours over 24 months), the individual may need to retrain and retest to become active on the registry again. Continuing education is necessary to maintain active status.

Do family caregivers get paid in Ohio?

Yes, in certain circumstances. Under programs like the Structured Family Caregiving model for Medicaid waivers, family members can get compensated for caregiving duties, provided they meet specific criteria, including eligibility and enrollment with an approved provider.