Build your Georgia policy manual

Will you provide personal care tasks?

Hands-on help such as bathing, toileting, grooming, dressing, eating and transfers, performed by personal care assistants (PCAs).

Will you provide companion or sitter tasks?

Company, supervision, meal preparation, housekeeping, transportation and escort, with no hands-on personal care.

Will you provide nursing services?

Care by a licensed RN or LPN under RN supervision. Most new private home care providers start without it.

How will your personal care assistants qualify?

Georgia accepts either (111-8-65-.09(5)(c)). If you run the 40-hour program, the manual includes its topics and competency check.

Will staff ever handle a client's money for home management?

For example, shopping with the client's cash or card. Needs written authorization, and staff with unlimited access must be bonded.

Will staff drive clients?

Georgia requires a signed waiver or proof of motor vehicle insurance when staff drive clients in a vehicle that is not the client's.

Will you use contracted nurses?

DCH says only RNs and LPNs can be contractors in a private home care provider. Aides must be employees.

Include recommended practices?

Some policies end with practical steps that go beyond the rules. Once you adopt them, DCH can expect you to follow them, so leave them out if you won't.