How to Start a Private Home Care Provider (PHCP) Agency in Georgia (2025): GAHLES Licensing Guide

How to Start a Private Home Care Provider (PHCP) Agency in Georgia (2025): GAHLES Licensing Guide

Wijesinghage Anton Sunanda Fonseka

Key Summary

  • PHCP Definition: A Private Home Care Provider (PHCP) offers non-medical in-home support such as bathing, dressing, meal prep, housekeeping, companionship, and transportation.
  • New Licensing Platform: As of 2025, Georgia has officially transitioned PHCP applications from GAMMIS to GAHLES (Georgia Healthcare Licensing, Enforcement, and Surveys).
  • Licensing Body: The Healthcare Facility Regulation Division (HFRD), under the Department of Community Health (DCH), oversees all licensing.
  • Application Portal: All submissions must be made through the GAHLES online portal.
  • Core Requirements:
    • Notarized affidavits and business license
    • GCHEXS fingerprint-based background checks
    • RN and Administrator documentation
    • At least two staff members at startup
  • Annual Licensing Fee: $250 per service (Companion Sitting, Personal Care, Nursing)
  • Download Ready-to-Use Forms: Get the complete PHCP documents pack

What is a Private Home Care Provider (PHCP)?

A Private Home Care Provider (PHCP) delivers non-medical services in a person’s home to support daily living needs. These services include help with personal hygiene, dressing, meal preparation, light housekeeping, companionship, and transportation to appointments. Unlike home health care, PHCPs do not provide medical treatment. Instead, they focus on personal care, support, and supervision, and are regulated by the state of Georgia to ensure safety and compliance. For more, visit the Georgia Department of Community Health PHCP page.

Why Start a PHCP in Georgia?

Georgia’s population is growing older. According to state demographic data, Georgia is home to over 1.6 million residents aged 65 and older, which accounts for 15.41% of the total population. With aging comes a rising need for supportive, in-home care services. PHCPs fill this essential gap, offering comfort, safety, and independence to seniors and individuals with disabilities-making this both a meaningful and profitable business opportunity.

GAHLES Replaces GAMMIS: 2025 Platform Update for Licensing

Historically, PHCP applications were submitted through the GAMMIS (Georgia Medicaid Management Information System) portal. However, as of 2025, the Healthcare Facility Regulation Division (HFRD) has fully transitioned the application process to GAHLES-Georgia’s new Healthcare Licensing, Enforcement, and Surveys system.
The new GAHLES portal is now the official site where you must:

  • Create an account and apply for licensure
  • Upload required documents
  • Receive updates and track application status
  • Respond to compliance requests

All future communications from HFRD will be sent to the contact email provided in your application, typically from hfrd.applicationswaivers@dch.ga.gov.

How to Apply for a PHCP License in Georgia (Step-by-Step)

To become a licensed PHCP in Georgia, you must meet the following state-mandated steps through the GAHLES system:

  1. Submit Application on GAHLES
    Access the portal at gahles.dch.ga.gov and complete your PHCP license application. You’ll need to upload a complete set of supporting documents and pay the licensing fee.
  2. Background Checks via GCHEXS
    All owners with 10% or more ownership interest and the Administrator must undergo a fingerprint-based background check through the Georgia Criminal History Check System (GCHEXS). A Satisfactory Determination Letter must be submitted and dated within 12 months of your application.
  3. Submit Required Documentation
    The required documents include:
    • Notarized Affidavit of Personal Identification with photo ID
    • Notarized Affidavit of Compliance (PHCP selected)
    • Current business license from city or county
    • Proof of business registration from the Georgia Secretary of State (Georgia Secretary of State Rules)
    • Administrator’s job description, background check letter, orientation training record, and statement of no misconduct
    • RN license (if offering nursing services) with a signed statement of no misconduct
    • At least two staff members at the time of application submission, including the Administrator
    Note: An RN can serve as Owner, Administrator, and Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) if properly licensed and employed full-time or via contract.

RN Documentation Requirements

Even if your PHCP offers only non-medical services, an RN must still be included in your organizational plan. RN file requirements include:

  • Valid RN license
  • Signed statement confirming no past misconduct

These are required as part of the Administrator or care supervisory role.

Licensing Fees for PHCP Services in Georgia

Licensing fees are non-refundable and must be paid in full during application. You will be charged per service category:

Service Annual Fee
Companion Sitting $250
Personal Care Services $250
Nursing Services $250

You may choose one or more services during your application submission on the GAHLES portal.

Prepare for On-Site Inspection

Once your application and documents are reviewed, DCH may conduct a compliance survey or inspection. You must be ready to present:

  • Your written policies and procedures
  • Staff records and credentials
  • Orientation and training materials
  • Service protocols and safety plans

Failure to meet any requirement or submit additional documentation within the designated timelines may result in denial of your application.

Common Elements Across Georgia Licensing Processes

Regardless of your service focus, the core licensing steps remain the same:

  • Application Submission via GAHLES
  • GCHEXS Background Checks
  • Compliance with State Regulations (Rule 111-8-65)
  • On-Site Inspections by HFRD

Download the Complete PHCP Document Set

Want to avoid delays and ensure your application is complete and compliant?
Download the Full PHCP Licensing Documents Pack

This includes:

  • Policies and procedures
  • Job descriptions
  • Orientation training records
  • RN and Administrator files
  • Affidavit templates
  • And more

Helpful Contacts and Resources

Final Thoughts: Get Licensed and Get Started

With the state’s transition from GAMMIS to GAHLES, it's more important than ever to follow the right steps, submit complete documents, and stay compliant with HFRD regulations. Starting a Private Home Care Provider (PHCP) agency in Georgia is not just a profitable venture-it’s a valuable way to care for seniors and individuals in need.
Don’t delay your opportunity. Be prepared, be accurate, and be ready to launch.

Need Assistance?

Download Your PHCP Licensing Package Now
CarePolicy.US offers a fully compliant, ready-to-use licensing package for PHCP agencies in Georgia. Let us help you navigate the process with confidence.

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