Business Incubation
Launch with Confidence: Comprehensive Guidance for Your Agency
Welcome to your exclusive resource page for starting a home care agency. As a valued member, you have access to essential tools and information to help you navigate the complexities of establishing and certifying your own agency. This page provides detailed guidance on applying for Medicare certification, required forms, and other critical resources.
Explore the featured article for a comprehensive overview and step-by-step instructions. Use the links to access specific forms and resources tailored to your needs. For any questions or additional support, don’t hesitate to reach out to us directly.
Launch with Confidence: Comprehensive Guidance for Your Agency
Starting a home care agency can be both exciting and challenging, and we're here to ensure you embark on this journey with the utmost confidence. Our expert guidance provides you with a clear roadmap from initial planning through to successful launch, covering every critical aspect of your business. With our support, you’ll gain the insights and resources needed to navigate regulations, attract clients, and build a solid foundation for long-term success.
Meetings take place monthly, the second Thursday of each month, at 4:00 pm alternating between in-person and virtual formats.
This focus group is designed for individuals new to home care or hospice, including owners, operators, and employees, who are looking to connect, share experiences, and collaborate on best practices. Allied members who share our mission of fostering growth and excellence in these care settings are also warmly invited.
Invest in essential software for scheduling, patient record management, and other operational needs.
A new home care business should explore electronic health record (EHR) systems to manage patient data efficiently and securely. Implementing scheduling and billing software can streamline administrative tasks, ensuring better time management and financial tracking. Telehealth platforms can enhance patient care by offering remote consultations and monitoring. Additionally, investing in caregiver training tools, such as online learning platforms and mobile apps, can help maintain high standards of care. Integrating these technologies can improve operational efficiency, enhance patient satisfaction, and support the growth of the home care business.
Dept of Public Health
In Massachusetts, the Department of Public Health (DPH) plays a significant role in overseeing and regulating home care services, ensuring that they meet state and federal standards.
Find resources and certification information for health care providers that operate home health agencies
Criminal Record Check
​In Massachusetts, background checks are conducted through the Criminal Offender Record Information (CORI) system, managed by the Department of Criminal Justice Information Services (DCJIS).
These checks are essential for various purposes, including employment, volunteer work, licensing, and housing
Electronic Visit Verification
Electronic Visit Verification (EVV)Â is a tracking system that requires electronic verification of when a person receives Medicaid-funded personal care or home health services.
Nurse Aide Registry Program
The Department of Public Health (DPH), oversees the certification and regulation of nurse aides (CNAs) within the state. The program ensures that CNAs meet federal and state standards for competency and conduct, maintaining a registry of certified individuals and managing related training and testing processes.
Become a MassHealth provider
Only MassHealth providers are reimbursed for services provided to MassHealth members. Therefore, providers must be approved as a participating provider before claims can be submitted for payment.
Your application process may be different depending on the type of program you choose.
Financial Guidance and Funding
Implement a billing system that accommodates multiple income sources, including Medicare, MassHealth, long-term care insurance, and private pay. This will help streamline payment processing, ensure compliance, and maintain a steady cash flow for your agency.
Home Health Agency Medicare Certification
Medicare/Medicaid certification is not a requirement for conducting a home health service, but participation is an option for your agency. Apply for Home Health Agency Medicare Certification on mass.gov
Executive Office of Elder Affairs
The Home Care Program provides care management, care coordination, advocacy, education, and in-home and community support services for adults 60+, people with disabilities, and people under age 60 living with Alzheimer’s disease or related dementia
Employment Agency Licensure
Employment agencies must be licensed by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts in order to conduct business in the state, regardless of whether or not the agency has a physical office within state borders.
Policies and Procedure Templates
These documents are provided as a guideline only. It is not a substitute for professional legal, regulatory, or compliance advice. It is the responsibility of the member agency to tailor these policies and procedures to meet the specific needs of their organization and comply with applicable laws and regulations.