Providing care as a Personal Care Service Provider (PCSP) or in-home caregiver in New Hampshire comes with real responsibility. Whether you’re caring for a senior, an adult with disabilities, or supporting a Medicaid-funded care plan, compliance with state regulations is essential to protect yourself and the person receiving care.
New Hampshire has clear guidelines around what in-home caregivers can do, how care must be documented, and what standards must be met to provide services legally. Understanding these requirements helps prevent compliance issues, payment delays, or disruptions in care.
Below is a practical overview of what PCSPs and in-home caregivers need to know.
Core Compliance Areas for PCSPs and In-Home Caregivers in New Hampshire
1. Scope of Duties for In-Home Caregivers
PCSPs in New Hampshire typically provide non-medical, in-home care, which may include:
- Assistance with activities of daily living (bathing, dressing, mobility)
- Meal preparation and light homemaking
- Safety supervision and companionship
Medical tasks, skilled nursing, or services outside the authorized care plan are generally not permitted unless properly licensed. Staying within your approved scope protects both caregiver and client.
2. Training, Screening, and Authorization Requirements
While requirements may vary based on the funding source (such as Medicaid programs like CFI), PCSPs and in-home caregivers are commonly required to:
- Complete background checks
- Meet training or orientation standards
- Be authorized through an approved home care agency or fiscal intermediary
Working with an experienced agency helps ensure these steps are completed correctly and on time.
3. Documentation and Timekeeping
Accurate documentation is not optional. PCSPs must properly track:
- Hours worked
- Services provided
- Any required notes or verification tied to the care plan
Incomplete or inaccurate records can result in payment issues or compliance flags, especially for Medicaid-funded in-home care.
4. Medicaid and Program-Specific Rules
If services are funded through programs like Choices for Independence (CFI) or other Medicaid home care options, additional rules apply. These may include:
- Service authorization limits
- Approved caregiver-client relationships
- Ongoing reassessments
Understanding how Medicaid requirements intersect with PCSP responsibilities is critical for long-term compliance.
How Guardian Home Care of NH Helps PCSPs Stay Compliant
Navigating New Hampshire regulations alone can be overwhelming, especially for family members stepping into an in-home caregiver or PCSP role. Guardian Home Care of NH supports caregivers by helping manage compliance, documentation, and coordination with Medicaid programs.
If you’re a PCSP or in-home caregiver in New Hampshire and want clarity on regulations, authorization, or next steps, call Guardian Home Care of NH or request a callback. Our team can help you understand your responsibilities and stay compliant while delivering safe, high-quality care at home.
References & Resources:
- [1] NH Medicaid Rules for Personal Care Services (He-E Administrative Code): Official NH state rules describing personal care service definitions.
- [2] Medicaid Long-Term Care Program Overview (including CFI specifics): Covers Medicaid eligibility and some waiver structures relevant to compliance.
