carepolicy Home Care Agency Policies and Procedures South Carolina State Approv Owner’s Manual

carepolicy Home Care Agency Policies and Procedures South Carolina State

Approv

Product Information

Introduction
[AGENCY NAME] is a provider of compassionate and innovative non-medical in- home care services. Our mission is to enhance the quality of life for our clients and their families by providing exceptional care services. We prioritize our clients, nurture a compassionate team, and continuously improve our services through innovation.

Vision
Our vision is to be the leading provider of compassionate and innovative non-medical in-home care services. We strive to prioritize our clients and empower them to live independently and comfortably. We envision a future where our care services bring joy and comfort to our clients and their families.

Core Values

1. Rooted in Compassion: We believe in deeply-rooted compassion for our clients, which drives service excellence and builds trust and security.
2. Branching out with Innovation: We encourage innovation by creating a work environment where staff feels safe to voice their ideas and think creatively to make our services dynamic and top-notch.
3. Thriving on Reliability: Dependability and reliability are fundamental to our business. We are responsive to our clients’ needs, respectful of their requests, and strive to exceed their expectations.
4. Striving for Resilience: We value endurance, flexibility, and the ability to recover quickly from setbacks. We embrace change, adapt quickly, and constantly improve our services to meet the evolving needs of our clients.
5. Growing Together as a Team: We believe in a collaborative work environment where every team member plays a crucial role in our organization’s success. We are committed to
   helping each other reach our fullest potential.

Specifications

• Version: 1.0
• Document Classification: Confidential

Product Usage Instructions

Procedure: Discharging a Client
The procedure for discharging a client is not defined in this manual. Please refer to the relevant documentation or contact our customer support for assistance.

Forms
The forms related to this product are not defined in this manual. Please refer to the relevant documentation or contact our customer support for assistance.

FAQ

• Q: How can I access the forms mentioned in the manual?
  A: The forms related to this product are not defined in this manual. Please refer to the relevant documentation or contact our customer support for assistance in accessing the forms.

• Q: What should I do if I have questions about discharging a client?
  A: If you have questions about discharging a client, please refer to the relevant documentation or contact our customer support for assistance. They will provide you with the necessary guidance.

• Q: How can I contact customer support?
  A: To contact our customer support, please refer to the contact information provided in the relevant documentation or visit our website for contact details.

Copyright [Year] © [Agency Name]

Disclaimer: All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be utilized, reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form by any means, electronic, mechanical, recording or otherwise, without the prior written consent of the publisher.

[Agency Name]

• [Agency Address]
• [Contact Number]
• [Email Address]
• [Website]

Introduction

• Welcome to the Policy and Procedure Manual of “[AGENCY NAME]”, a Personal Care/Attendant Care and In-home Respite Services serving the State of South Carolina. This manual serves as a comprehensive guide for our employees, outlining the policies and procedures that govern our operations in accordance with state regulations, including the South Carolina Code of Laws.
• At [AGENCY NAME], our mission is to provide high-quality, compassionate care to individuals in need of personal assistance, attendant care, and In-home Respite Services. We are committed to promoting the well-being and independence of our clients, while maintaining a safe and supportive environment for our dedicated employees.
• This manual has been carefully developed to ensure that our services align with the standards set forth by the State of South Carolina and the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control. It encompasses a wide range of policies and procedures, covering various aspects of our operations, including client care, employee management, safety protocols, reporting requirements, and more.
• We recognize the importance of adhering to state guidelines, regulations, and best practices to ensure the highest quality of care and professionalism. This manual serves as a valuable resource for all employees of [AGENCY NAME], providing clear guidance on how to carry out their responsibilities and maintain compliance with applicable laws and regulations.
• It is essential that all employees familiarize themselves with the policies and procedures outlined in this manual and adhere to them consistently. Compliance with these guidelines is crucial to maintain the safety, well-being, and satisfaction of our clients, as well as to uphold the reputation and integrity of [AGENCY NAME] as a trusted and reliable care provider.
• This manual is a living document and will be updated periodically to reflect any changes in state regulations or our operational practices. As an employee, it is your responsibility to stay informed about any updates and revisions. Regular training sessions and communication channels will be provided to ensure that all employees are aware of any modifications to the policies and procedures outlined herein.
• We value the dedication and commitment of our employees in delivering exceptional care to our clients. By upholding the policies and procedures outlined in this manual, we can work together to create a positive and nurturing environment that promotes the health, safety, and well-being of those we serve.

Vision
[AGENCY NAME] will be the leading provider of compassionate and innovative non-medical in-home care services, where clients come first, and every individual is empowered to grow and thrive. We envision a future where our care services are not only a necessity but a source of joy and comfort for our clients and their families.

Mission
At A New Leaf Care LLC, our mission is to provide exceptional non-medical in- home care services that enhance the quality of life for our clients and their families. We achieve this by putting our clients first, nurturing a compassionate and reliable team, and leveraging innovation to continuously improve our services. Our goal is to empower our clients to live as independently and comfortably as possible, while remaining rooted in love, care, and respect.

Core Values

1. “Rooted in Compassion”: Our business is founded on deeply-rooted compassion for our clients, and a strong desire to improve their lives. We believe that empathy drives service excellence and nurtures long-lasting relationships with clients, to build trust and a sense of security.
2. “Branching out with Innovation”: To stand out in today’s fast-paced business environment and be different from everyone else, innovation plays a vital role. Innovation starts by creating a work environment where staff feels safe to voice their ideas and to think creatively about how we can make our services dynamic and top-notch.
3. “Thriving on Reliability”: Dependability and reliability are the building blocks of our business. We pride ourselves on being responsive to the needs of our clients promptly, respectful of their requests and wishes, and striving to anticipate and exceed their expectations.
4. “Empowering Growth”: Just as the leaves of a tree need sunlight and nutrients to grow, we believe in nurturing and empowering our staff towards personal and professional growth that helps them and the company thrive. We are dedicated to staying up-to-date on the latest infection control measures, medical technologies, and best practices in in-home care to better serve our patients. We strive to create a supportive and encouraging environment that fosters continued learning, personal growth and overall improvement. Like a tree, we are constantly growing stronger and more resilient, adapting to new challenges and weathering changes along the way.
5. “Striving for Resilience”: [AGENCY NAME] values endurance, flexibility, and the capacity to recover quickly from any setback while maintaining a positive outlook. We embrace change and adapt quickly to new situations, always looking for ways to improve our services and meet the evolving needs of our clients.
6.  “Growing Together as a Team”: A healthy and collaborative work environment provides a platform for our team members to pursue our shared mission of bringing high-quality non-medical in-home care services to our clients. Just like a forest ecosystem, we believe that every individual has a crucial role to play in our organization’s success, and we are committed to helping each other reach our fullest potential.

Document Control
Document revisions shall be recorded in the table below;

Document review and approvals shall be recorded in the table below;

| |
Approved By| | |

Note: All policies and procedures shall be reviewed at least annually, with recommended changes submitted to the governing body for approval, as necessary.

Statement of Policy

[AGENCY NAME] is committed to providing exceptional Personal Care/Attendant Care and In-home Respite Services to individuals in the State of South Carolina. Our agency is dedicated to upholding the highest standards of care, professionalism, and ethical conduct. This Statement of Policy serves as a foundational guide for our employees, outlining the core principles that govern our operations.

1. Client-Centered Approach: We prioritize the well-being and individual needs of our clients. Our services are designed to enhance their quality of life, promote independence, and maintain their dignity. We strive to establish a trusting and respectful relationship with each client, ensuring their physical, emotional, and social needs are met with compassion and empathy.
2. Compliance with Laws and Regulations: [AGENCY NAME] is fully committed to complying with all applicable state and federal laws, regulations, and licensing requirements. We adhere to the South Carolina Code of Laws and follow the guidelines set forth by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control. Our policies and procedures are developed in accordance with these legal frameworks to ensure the provision of safe and compliant care.
3. Qualified and Trained Staff: We recognize the importance of having a highly skilled and competent workforce. [AGENCY NAME] is dedicated to employing qualified caregivers who possess the necessary training, certifications, and experience to meet the specific needs of our clients. We provide ongoing training and professional development opportunities to ensure our staff remains knowledgeable and up to date with best practices in the field.
4. Respect for Diversity and Inclusion: We embrace and respect the diversity of our clients and employees. [AGENCY NAME] promotes an inclusive environment that values and celebrates individual differences, including but not limited to, race, ethnicity, religion, age, gender, sexual orientation, and disabilities. Discrimination or harassment of any kind will not be tolerated within our agency.
5. Confidentiality and Privacy: [AGENCY NAME] recognizes the importance of maintaining the privacy and confidentiality of our clients’ personal information. All employees are required to handle client records and information in a secure and confidential manner, adhering to all applicable privacy laws and regulations. Access to client information is restricted to authorized personnel on a need-to-know basis.
6. Safety and Risk Management: The safety of our clients, employees, and the community is of utmost importance to us. [AGENCY NAME] is committed to maintaining a safe environment by implementing appropriate safety measures, conducting regular risk assessments, and providing necessary training to mitigate potential hazards. We comply with all health and safety regulations to ensure the well-being of everyone involved.
7. Continuous Quality Improvement: We are dedicated to continuously improving the quality of our services. [AGENCY NAME] actively seeks feedback from clients, their families, and employees to identify areas for improvement. We regularly review our policies and procedures, implement best practices, and make necessary adjustments to enhance the care we provide.

This Statement of Policy reflects the values and principles that guide [AGENCY NAME] in delivering exceptional Personal Care/Attendant Care and In-home Respite Services. It is the responsibility of all employees to uphold these policies, follow the procedures outlined in our Policy and Procedure Manual, and contribute to the overall success of our agency.
By adhering to this Statement of Policy, we can ensure the highest level of care, professionalism, and integrity in our services and maintain the trust and confidence of our clients and the community

Section 100: Purpose and Scope, Definitions, and Requirements for

Licensure

101. Purpose and Scope
This policy and procedures manual implement the provisions of the South Carolina In-Home Care Providers Act, as codified in Section 44-70-10 et seq., S.C. Code of Laws, 1976, as amended. These policies and procedures apply to all in-home care providers operating in South Carolina.

102. Definitions
For the purposes of this manual, the following definitions apply:

1. Administrator: The individual designated by the licensee to have the authority and responsibility to manage the in-home care provider and is in charge of all functions and activities of the provider.
2. Blood Assay for Mycobacterium tuberculosis (BAMT): A general term to refer to in vitro diagnostic tests that assess for the presence of tuberculosis (TB) infection with M. tuberculosis. This term includes, but is not limited to, interferon-gamma release assays (IGRA).
3. Caregiver: Individual employed by, contracted by, referred by, or agent of the in-home care provider who provides services to clients.
4. Client: A person that receives services or care from an in-home care provider licensed by the Department.
5. Department: The South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control.
6. Repeat Violation: The recurrence of a violation cited under the same section of the regulation or statute within a thirty-six (36) month period. The time-period determinant of repeat violation status is applicable in instances when there are ownership changes.
7. Responsible Party: A person who is authorized by law to make decisions on behalf of a client. This includes, but is not limited to, a court-appointed guardian, conservator, or any individual with health care or other durable power of attorney.
8. Revocation of License: An action by the Department to cancel or annul a provider’s license by recalling, withdrawing, or rescinding the provider’s authority to operate.
9. Suspension of License: An action by the Department requiring a provider to cease operations for a period of time or requiring a provider to cease admitting clients until such time as the Department rescinds the restriction.

103. Requirements for Licensure

License: No person, private or public organization, political subdivision, or governmental agency shall establish, operate, maintain, or represent itself (advertise and/or market) as an in-home care provider in South Carolina without first obtaining a license from the Department. When it has been determined by the Department that services are being provided and the owner has not been issued a license from the Department to provide such care services, the owner shall cease operation immediately and ensure the safety, health, and well-being of its clients. Current and/or previous violations of the S.C. Code and/or Department regulations may jeopardize the issuance of a license for the provider or the licensing of any other provider or addition to an existing provider which is owned and/or operated by the licensee.

B. Issuance and Terms of License:

1. The license issued by the Department shall be posted in a conspicuous place in a public area of the provider’s business office or readily available to the public.
2. The issuance of a license does not guarantee adequacy or quality of individual services, personal safety, fire safety, or the well-being of any client of the provider.
3. A license is not assignable or transferable and is subject to suspension or revocation at any time by the Department for the licensee’s failure to comply with the laws and regulations of this State.
4. A license shall be effective for a specified provider at a specific location. A license shall be valid for a period of time specified by the Department.
5. The issuance of a license under this chapter does not guarantee provision of care by the licensee that meets or exceeds applicable standards of care. The Department is not liable to any party for acts or omissions of a licensee involving or relating to the provision of care.

Provider Name: No proposed provider shall be named, nor shall any existing provider have its name changed to, the same or similar name as any other provider licensed in South Carolina. The Department shall determine if names are similar. If a provider is part of a franchise with multiple locations, the provider must include the geographic area in which it is located as part of its name.

Application: Applicants for a license shall submit to the Department a complete and accurate application on a form or by electronic means, as prescribed by the Department prior to initial licensing and periodically thereafter at intervals determined by the Department. The application includes both the applicant’s oath assuring that the contents of the application are accurate and true and the applicant will comply with this regulation. The application shall be signed by the owner(s) if an individual or partnership; in the case of a corporation, by two of its officers. The application shall set forth the full name and address of the provider for which the license is sought, the owner in the event the owner’s name and address is different from that of the provider, and the names of the persons in control of the provider. The Department may require additional information, including affirmative evidence of the applicant’s ability to comply with these regulations. When submitting an application for an initial or renewal license, the provider shall include evidence of:

1. Either liability insurance coverage or, in lieu of liability insurance coverage, a surety bond. The provider shall maintain such coverage for the duration of the license period. The minimum amount of coverage is one hundred thousand dollars ($100,000) per occurrence and three hundred thousand dollars ($300,000) aggregate.
2. Indemnity coverage to compensate clients for injuries and losses resulting from services provided.
3. Workers compensation insurance in accordance with S.C. Code Section 42-5-10 et seq.
4. Criminal record checks and drug test results for the prospective licensee.
5. A random drug testing program pursuant to S.C. Code 44-70-70.

Licensing Fees: The initial license fee shall be one thousand dollars ($1,000). The fee for annual license renewal shall be eight hundred dollars ($800). Such fees shall be made payable by check or credit card to the Department and are not refundable. If the application is denied, a portion of the fee may be refunded based upon the remaining months of the licensure year.

Late Fee: The Department may order an entity to cease operations upon license expiration. Failure to submit a renewal application or fee within thirty (30) days of the expiration of a license may result in a late fee of twenty-five (25) percent of the licensing fee amount, in addition to the licensing fee. Continual failure to submit completed and accurate renewal applications and/or fees by the time period specified by the Department may result in an enforcement action, including revocation.

License Renewal: For a license to be renewed, applicants shall file an application with the Department, pay a license fee of eight hundred dollars ($800), and must not be undergoing enforcement actions by the Department. If the license renewal is delayed due to enforcement actions, the renewal license shall be issued only when the matter has been resolved satisfactorily by the Department or when the adjudicatory process is completed, whichever is applicable.

1. Prior to reinstatement of a suspended license, the licensee shall submit a reinstatement fee of four hundred dollars ($400).
2. Prior to reinstatement of a revoked license, the licensee must apply for a license as provided for in Section 103 of this regulation along with the initial licensing fee. Any time remaining from the revoked license is forfeited.

Change of License:

1. A provider shall request issuance of an amended license by application to the Department prior to any of the following circumstances:
2. Change of ownership.
3. Change of provider location from one geographic site to another.
4. Changes in provider name or address (as notified by the post office) shall be accomplished by application or by letter from the licensee to the Department.
5. An amendment fee of fifty dollars ($50) is required for each amendment.

Exceptions to Licensing Standards: The Department has the authority to make exceptions to these standards where it is determined that the health, safety, and well-being of the clients are not compromised and provided the standard is not specifically required by statute.

Accessibility: The in-home care provider shall ensure that it is accessible in person, by phone, or page during the hours of 9:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M., Monday through Friday, except for those holidays recognized by the State of South Carolina. Those staff members shall have access to all records required for routine inspections and complaint investigations.

Section 200: Enforcement

201. General
The Department of Health and Environmental Control shall employ various methods, including inspections, investigations, applications, and the review of relevant documentation, to ensure compliance with this regulation by Personal Care/Attendant Care and In-home Respite Service providers. These enforcement measures are aimed at safeguarding the health, safety, and well- being of clients.

202. Violations
If the Department determines that a Personal Care/Attendant Care and In-home Respite Service provider is in violation of any statutory provision, rule, or regulation pertaining to the operation or maintenance of such a provider, the Department has the authority to take appropriate enforcement actions. The licensee will be given proper notice of the violation before any enforcement action is taken.

The enforcement actions that may be imposed by the Department include but are not limited to:

1. Monetary Penalties: The Department may impose monetary penalties on the provider for each violation. The amount of the penalty shall be not less than one hundred dollars ($100) and not more than five thousand dollars ($5,000) for each violation. It should be noted that each day a violation continues will be considered a subsequent offense.
2. Denial of License: The Department may deny the issuance of a license to a provider that fails to comply with the applicable regulations and requirements.
3. Suspension of License: The Department may suspend the license of a provider for a specified period of time. During the suspension period, the provider will be prohibited from operating and admitting new clients.
4. Revocation of License: In cases of serious or repeated violations, the Department may revoke the provider’s license. Revocation means the complete cancellation or annulment of the provider’s authority to operate.

203. Monetary Penalties
Monetary penalties are a form of enforcement measure used by the Department to address violations. The penalties serve as a deterrent and encourage compliance with the regulations. The following guidelines apply to monetary penalties:

1. The Department will assess monetary penalties for each violation of the provisions outlined in this regulation.
2. The minimum penalty amount for each violation shall be one hundred dollars ($100).
3. The maximum penalty amount for each violation shall be five thousand dollars ($5,000).
4. Each day a violation continues will be considered a subsequent offense and may incur additional penalties.

The Department will determine the specific amount of the penalty based on the severity and nature of the violation, the potential harm to clients, and any aggravating or mitigating factors. The Department may consider factors such as the provider’s compliance history, efforts to rectify the violation, and cooperation during the investigation.
Providers are expected to promptly pay the assessed penalties within the specified timeframe. Failure to pay penalties may result in further enforcement actions, including license suspension or revocation.

Document Classification: Confidential_ [AGENCY NAME]

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