Hundreds of home care agencies that assist elderly or disabled individuals with basic tasks such as dressing, bathing and housekeeping are about to fall under state scrutiny for the first time.

The Pennsylvania Department of Health published regulations Saturday to provide minimum standards for nonmedical home care agencies. More than 400 home health agencies that employ skilled individuals such as nurses and therapists have already been regulated.

With the backing of the largest association representing home care providers, the Legislature approved a measure in 2006 that extends state oversight to agencies delivering more basic home assistance. Their work also includes such tasks as preparing meals and transporting clients to appointments.

The legislation and new regulations do not apply to self-employed individuals who have a direct relationship with a client. But employers who send multiple direct-care workers into homes will have to pay a $100 licensing fee and ensure their aides have criminal background checks and tuberculosis screenings.

The employees will have to pass a competency test or receive training on basic skills and knowledge in assisting clients. The state has also established a new consumer hot line for clients to report complaints about service providers, most of whom are hired directly by clients or their relatives.

Read more: http://www.postgazette.com/pg/09349/1020944-114.stm#ixzz0Zluw35UU