1. Program Definition and Services
Home Health Services in Florida provide skilled medical care and support services to individuals in their homes. Services include:
- Skilled nursing care
- Physical, occupational, and speech therapy
- Medical social services
- Home health aide services
- Medical equipment and supplies
- Nutritional counseling
2. Regulations
Home Health Services in Florida are governed by:
- Florida Statutes Chapter 400, Part III
- Florida Administrative Code Chapter 59A-8
3. Licensing or Certification
Providers must be licensed by the Agency for Health Care Administration (AHCA). Medicare or Medicaid certification may also be required depending on the services offered
4. Responsible State Agency
The Florida Agency for Health Care Administration (AHCA) oversees Home Health Services.
5. Application Process
Providers must apply through AHCA using the Health Care Licensing Application. The application can be submitted online through the AHCA licensure portal
6. Required Documentation
Required documents typically include:
- Proof of financial ability to operate
- Background screening results for staff
- Policies and procedures manual
- Proof of liability insurance coverage
- Documentation of compliance with local zoning requirements
7. Timeline for Approval
The approval process typically takes 30 days from the date of application submission, though it may take longer if additional information is required
8. Pre-Application Process
There is no specific pre-application process mentioned in the available information.
9. Pre-Application Training
While there's no mandatory pre-application training mentioned, providers must ensure staff are trained according to state regulations.
10. Additional Notes
- Home health agencies must be operational and have a minimum of 10 patients receiving skilled care before a Medicare certification survey is conducted
- As of February 2025, home health services are covered by Medicare for eligible individuals who are homebound and require part-time or intermittent skilled care
- Florida implements a robust system of monitoring and enforcement to uphold quality standards for home healthcare services
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