1. Program Definition and Services 

Home Care Services in Maine are designed to assist older adults and adults with disabilities to remain independent in their communities. Services include: 

• Personal Care Services 

• Nursing Services 

• Home Delivered Meals 

• Personal Emergency Response Systems 

• Respite Care 

• Assistive Technology 

• Environmental Modifications 

• Independent Support Services (Homemaker Services) 

2. Regulations 

Home Care Services in Maine are governed by: 

• MaineCare Benefits Manual 

• Title 22 of Maine Revised Statutes 

• Licensing regulations under the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) 

3. Licensing or Certification 

As of August 2024, personal care agencies are required to be licensed with the state. 

4. Responsible State Agency 

The Maine Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), specifically the Division of Licensing and Certification, is responsible for licensing Home Care Services providers. 

5. Application Process 

Providers must apply through the Maine DHHS. The application process involves submitting an application and supporting documentation for review and approval. 

6. Required Documentation 

Providers typically need to submit: 

• Completed application form 

• Proof of compliance with state health and safety standards 

• Evidence of an electronic medical records system 

• Staffing plans 

• Facility floor plans (if applicable) 

7. Timeline for Approval 

The specific timeline for approval is not provided in the provided results. 

8. Pre-Application Process 

While there's no formal pre-application process mentioned, potential providers should review the licensing requirements and ensure they can meet DHHS expectations before applying. 

9. Pre-Application Training 

No specific pre-application training requirements are mentioned in the provided results. 

10. Additional Notes 

• Instead of a $25 registration fee, personal care agencies now pay a $500 initial application fee and then a renewal every two years that starts at $200 and is based on the number of employees. 

• Care aides are required to pass a background check to verify they haven't committed any violent crimes. 

• Before receiving home care services, clients must be provided with a written care plan. 

• Home care providers may assist with daily medications but may not prescribe new medications unless they're licensed medical professionals. 

• Private care workers who do not work for an agency are not covered by the new regulations. 

• Some agencies are forming an association to lobby for changes to the regulations.