1 Program Definition and Services
Respite Care Services in Hawaii are short-term care provided to individuals to relieve their primary caregivers at home. These services are designed for members who are unable to care for themselves and meet the nursing facility level of care (NFLOC). Services can be provided on an hourly, daily, or overnight basis.
2. Regulations
The program is governed by Hawaii Administrative Rules (HAR) Title 17, Chapter 1427 - Respite Services.
3. Licensing or Certification
A license is required to operate as a Respite Care Services provider in Hawaii.
4. Responsible State Agency
The Hawaii State Department of Health, Office of Health Care Assurance (OHCA) is responsible for issuing the required license.
5. Application Process
The application process is conducted by mail. Agencies must submit a completed Home Care Agency Licensing Application Form to the OHCA.
6. Required Documentation
The following documents are required for the application:
- Completed Home Care Agency Licensing Application Form
- Proof of business registration with the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs (DCCA)
- Tax license for General Excise Tax (GET)
- Proof of liability insurance (general and professional)
- Staff qualifications and certifications
- Background check results for all direct care staff
- Policies and procedures manual.
7. Timeline for Approval
The approval process can take an average of 90 days to complete.
8. Pre-Application Process
There is no specific pre-license application process mentioned in the provided information.
9. Pre-Application Training
No pre-application training is explicitly mentioned in the provided information.
10. Additional Notes
- Agencies must be familiar with licensure requirements outlined in HAR 11-700.
- Existing agencies must apply for their state license immediately and may continue to operate during the application process. New agencies must be licensed prior to providing services.
- Agencies must pay licensure fees as specified in Chapter 11-103.1, HAR.
- Respite care can be provided in various locations, including the individual's home, licensed day care facilities, and Medicaid-certified nursing facilities.
- The maximum allowable benefit is 2 weeks per episode.
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