1. Program Definition and Services Provided
Home Health Services in Minnesota involve providing medical and health-related services to individuals in their homes. These services include intermittent visits from skilled nursing, home health aides, social services, and professional therapies such as physical, occupational, and speech therapy. The goal is to support individuals in recovering from illness or injury and maintaining independence in their homes.
2. Regulations
The primary regulations governing Home Health Services are found in Minnesota Statutes Chapter 256B.0651-256B.0653, which address home health agency services, and 42 CFR 440.70, which outlines federal requirements for home health care. Additionally, providers must comply with Medicare certification standards if they wish to receive Medicare reimbursement
3. Licensing or Certification
To operate as a Home Health Service provider in Minnesota, you must obtain a Medicare certification and a comprehensive home care license from the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH). This certification is required for providing skilled home health services
4. Responsible State Agency
The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) is responsible for issuing comprehensive home care licenses, while the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) oversees home health services under Medical Assistance programs.
5. Application Process
The application process involves submitting a comprehensive license application to MDH and obtaining Medicare certification through the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). Home health agencies must also enroll with Minnesota Health Care Programs (MHCP) to provide services under Medical Assistance
6. Required Documentation
The following documents are typically required for licensure and enrollment:
- Completed application form
- Proof of business registration (e.g., articles of incorporation, EIN)
- Proof of liability insurance
- Background study data collection forms for all staff
- Training documentation for staff
- Accreditation certificates if applicable.
7. Timeline for Approval
The processing time for a comprehensive home care license is typically 60 days after the application is deemed complete by MDH’ Enrollment with MHCP usually takes about 30 days
8. Pre-Application Process
There is no formal pre-application process, but applicants are encouraged to review MDH and CMS requirements to ensure they meet all standards before submitting their application.
9. Pre-Application Training
While there is no mandatory pre-application training, providers may benefit from familiarizing themselves with home health care standards and regulations.
10. Additional Notes
- Services must be medically necessary and authorized by a qualified professional.
- Providers must comply with specific standards for home health care, including a face-to-face visit requirement for initiating services
- Funding for home health services can come from Medicare, Medical Assistance, and private insurance.
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