Every answer was written and checked ahead of time, with the official document next to it. Nothing is made up on the spot.
Do I need a license to run a non-medical home care agency in Ohio?
Yes, if you provide personal care or home health aide services.
Ohio requires a nonmedical home health services license from ODH to provide nonmedical home health services, which the law defines as home health aide services (such as hands-on bathing, dressing and toileting help) and personal care services. A skilled home health license also covers these services. The law excludes some providers, such as immediate family members, and does not name a companion-only exemption; ask ODH if your services are limited.
Written and checked September 22, 2026
What does an Ohio home health license cost, and how long does it last?
$250; three years.
The fee is $250 for either license, paid by cashier's check or postal money order to "Treasurer, State of Ohio." Providers that were not providing services on or just before September 30, 2021 need a surety bond of $50,000 (skilled) or $20,000 (nonmedical). A license is valid for three years, and a renewal is on time if filed at least 90 days before it expires.
Written and checked September 22, 2026
I'm ODA-certified for PASSPORT. Do I still need an ODH license?
Yes, if you provide home health services.
ODA rules require every qualification that state law requires, and ODA's application checklists ask home health agency providers that deliver services in the home for a copy of their ODH license, or proof that they applied. ODA certification shortens the nonmedical license application, because ODH waives several items. The law and the rule differ on exactly which items are waived (see below).
Written and checked September 22, 2026
Can a non-medical agency bill Ohio Home Care Waiver personal care?
Only if it is Medicare-certified or accredited.
OAC 5160-46-04 says OHCW personal care aide services are delivered by an employee of a Medicare-certified or otherwise-accredited home health agency, or by a non-agency personal care aide. PASSPORT personal care, by contrast, is provided by ODA-certified agency providers and participant-directed providers.
Written and checked September 22, 2026
When will an EVV mismatch deny my claim in Ohio?
Now, for waiver services that need EVV.
Since dates of service January 1, 2026 (OHCW and PASSPORT) and March 1, 2026 (MyCare), a claim for a service that needs EVV must match a Verified visit. Claims fail if the visit is missing, the procedure code or Medicaid IDs don't match, or you bill more units than the visit shows. For PASSPORT, ODM says a fixed claim can be resubmitted right away, without waiting for the next month.
Written and checked September 22, 2026
Do live-in caregivers have to use EVV in Ohio?
Not if ODM approves an exemption.
A direct care worker who lives with the person can request an exemption through ODM's online form, uploading proof of the shared address such as a utility bill, ID, W-2 or tax return. Keep logging visits until you receive written approval. Each exemption covers one situation, and changes in live-in status, payer or service need a new request.
Written and checked September 22, 2026
Which MyCare health plans operate in Ohio?
Four.
Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield, CareSource and Molina Healthcare of Ohio are available statewide, and Buckeye Health Plan is the fourth plan; it is not an option for new members in plan year 2026. The plans cover people 21 or older who have Medicare Parts A, B and D and full Medicaid. You must enroll with ODM and contract with each plan separately.
Written and checked September 22, 2026
How often do I redo background checks for Ohio aides?
Every five years (licensed agencies).
Under OAC 3701-60-06, licensed agencies recheck direct-care employees hired on or after January 1, 2008 within 30 days after the fifth anniversary of hire, and at least every five years after that. Before hiring, check the six required databases, then get a BCI check; add an FBI check if the applicant can't show five years of Ohio residence.
Written and checked September 22, 2026
How often must a nurse visit a personal care aide's client?
At least every 60 days.
For PASSPORT, the RN or LPN supervisor visits at least every 60 days; after two in-person visits in a year, the rest may be by phone or video. For the Ohio Home Care Waiver, the RN or LPN makes a face-to-face home visit at least every 60 days while the aide is present, and documents it.
Written and checked September 22, 2026