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 Rhode Island?
Yes, a home care provider license.
RIDOH licenses home care providers under 216-RICR-40-10-17. A home care provider gives health care services in the home that need RN supervision, and the license includes homemaker services. Running an agency without a license can bring a fine of up to $5,000, up to a year in prison, or both, for each offense. The only exemption the rule lists is for groups that provide volunteer nurses.
Written and checked September 23, 2026
How long does a Rhode Island home care license last, and what does it cost?
One year; $650.
Licenses are issued for up to one year, expire on December 31 after they are issued, and may be renewed each year, subject to inspection. The fee rule sets a $650 annual license fee for home care providers and home nursing care providers. A change of owner, operator or lessee costs $1,500 to $50,000.
Sources (2)
Written and checked September 23, 2026
Do I need a certificate of need to open a home care agency?
Yes.
The rule says a certificate of need is required before a home care or home nursing care provider is set up and first licensed. The application fee is $500 plus 0.25% of capital cost for a regular or accelerated review, or $750 plus 0.25% for an expedited review.
Sources (2)
Written and checked September 23, 2026
Does my agency have to be accredited?
Yes, within two years.
Home care and home nursing care providers must be accredited by a nationally recognized accrediting body within two years of their first license. They must stay accredited to remain licensed in good standing.
Written and checked September 23, 2026
What training do home care aides need in Rhode Island?
Nursing assistant license or homemaker training.
Personal care is given by nursing assistants licensed by RIDOH. They need a 120-hour approved program with at least 40 hours of practical training, the state exam and a full BCI check, and 12 hours of in-service training a year to renew. Homemakers need at least 20 hours of classroom training and 5 hours of practical experience, and must pass a final exam.
Sources (2)
Written and checked September 23, 2026
How often must a nurse supervise aides?
At least every 3 months.
Before services start, an RN or other licensed professional does an in-home assessment (within 48 hours if documented extraordinary circumstances prevent it). After that, nursing assistants must be supervised on site and the plan of care reviewed at least every 3 months. Homemakers' supervisors reassess clients at least every 3 months.
Written and checked September 23, 2026
When will Rhode Island Medicaid deny a claim for missing EVV?
After 30 days in suspense.
Since July 7, 2026, fee-for-service claims for T1000, S5125, S5130 and S5125 U1 suspend with code ESC 994, 995 or 996 if the EVV record is missing, incomplete or doesn't match. If the EVV data is still missing or wrong after 30 days, the claim denies. EOHHS may also audit EVV visits with 30 business days' notice.
Sources (2)
Written and checked September 23, 2026
Can a new agency enroll with Rhode Island Medicaid right now?
Not for some provider types until January 1, 2027.
Medicaid Provider Enrollment has a six-month freeze, from July 1, 2026 to January 1, 2027, on new Severely Disabled Nursing Homecare (Type 65), Personal Care Aid/Assistant (Type 72), home health and hospice providers. It does not affect existing providers or applications sent before July 1. The bulletins don't say which type a new home care agency enrolls as, so check with Medicaid Provider Enrollment.
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Written and checked September 23, 2026
Which Medicaid health plans operate in Rhode Island, and do they pay for home care?
Three plans; long-term home care is mostly fee-for-service.
EOHHS contracts with Neighborhood Health Plan of Rhode Island, Tufts Health Public Plan and UnitedHealthcare Community Plan. For Medicaid adults without Medicare who get long-term services at home, those services are paid fee-for-service and the plan covers only essential primary care. People with Medicare and Medicaid can choose Neighborhood INTEGRITY for Duals, which covers long-term services and supports, PACE or fee-for-service.
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Written and checked September 23, 2026
What is Rhode Island's minimum wage, and is there a special aide pay rule?
$15.00 an hour from January 1, 2025, in the newest guide we hold.
The state labor department's December 2024 guide lists $15.00 from January 1, 2025; check the Department of Labor and Training for any later increase. For Medicaid personal care (S5125 and S5125 U1), the full $0.76-an-hour shift differential increase for hours between 3 PM and 7 AM on weekdays and all hours on weekends and state holidays must be passed to the nursing assistant. Employers attest to EOHHS by July 31 each year.
Sources (2)
Written and checked September 23, 2026