Start an Agency
Navigating Success in Home Care: Expert Guidance and Strategic Support
Home care is one of the most dynamic and rapidly expanding sectors within the health and human services industries. Establishing a home care agency offers an exceptional opportunity for a meaningful and profitable career, providing you with the autonomy to be your own boss, make informed decisions, and chart your own path to success.
However, success in this field requires more than just ambition. New home care agencies face a high rate of failure, particularly in their formative years.
Our expertise is dedicated to guiding you through these complexities. This page is designed to provide valuable insights into starting your agency and to connect you with additional resources. For those committed to thriving in this industry, we invite you to join the Alliance. Our support will ensure you have the strategic guidance needed to develop a strong business brand and achieve lasting success.
MA Regulation for Private Care
Massachusetts does not offer a specific license for private pay home care agencies. However, you must conduct criminal background checks (CORI) and adhere to other regulations regarding employment law, patient abuse prevention and reporting.
The Alliance’s Accreditation Program helps demonstrate compliance with standards similar to those for licensure in other states.
Billing Insurers & Collecting Payment
Home care agencies are paid through a combination of Medicare, MassHealth (Medicaid), private insurance, private pay, Veterans Affairs, and sometimes other state or local funding sources, requiring careful navigation of billing and regulatory requirements.
Attracting and Retaining Patients
With over 150 Medicare certified agencies and at least 300 private care agencies in Massachusetts, competition is high.
Strategies include traditional advertising, outreach to local healthcare professionals, and offering niche services or targeting underserved markets.
Business Planning
Create a comprehensive business plan that includes financial projections, market analysis, and operational strategies. Consider start-up and ongoing costs, and explore potential funding sources.
Members Only
Workforce Recruitment and Management
Develop strategies for hiring qualified staff, training new hires, and retaining employees. Offer competitive salaries and benefits to keep your team motivated.
Marketing and Client Acquisition
Utilize digital marketing, build relationships with healthcare professionals, and differentiate your agency with specialized services or by focusing on underserved areas.
Legal and Insurance Requirements
Ensure you have necessary insurances, such as liability insurance, and prepare contracts for clients and insurance providers.
Members Only
Technology and Tools
Invest in essential software for scheduling, patient record management, and other operational needs.
MassHealth Enrollment
MassHealth has launched a new Mass.gov application request option. Providers can now initiate a request for an application online, at their own convenience, and receive an electronic or paper application to complete the process. Information about applying to become a MassHealth Provider, and the new application request form can be found by visiting:
Who Can Help Me After I Launch My Agency?
The Home Care Alliance of Massachusetts is a professional organization dedicated to supporting established home care agencies in their growth and success. Our membership provides access to valuable resources, networking opportunities, and expert guidance to help agencies thrive in a dynamic industry.
Contact the Alliance
The Alliance offers extensive support to help agencies enhance their operations, compliance, and business development. If you are looking to grow your agency or improve your existing operations, we encourage you to reach out and become a part of our community.
We are here to help you elevate your agency’s potential. For more information about membership, please contact us today.