Q1) How long does initial licensure take for home health or hospice in Tennessee?
Timelines vary by completeness of your application, survey scheduling and any certificate of need or commission ratification steps. The commission’s licensure materials describe review and ratification at regular meetings, after which licences are issued. Our consultation packages include application prep, deficiency prevention and survey coaching to compress timelines.
Q2) Who inspects my facility or agency, and how often?
The HFC division of licensure and regulation conducts pre-licensure and periodic surveys for health facilities, while DHS inspects adult day centres and TDMHSAS surveys behavioural health programs. Expect recurring inspections tied to renewals and complaint investigations. Our policies include Tennessee-specific survey checklists and plan of correction templates.
Q3) What background checks are required for staff?
Most licensed providers must ensure criminal background checks, often including fingerprint-based TBI and FBI checks processed through Tennessee applicant processing services via IdentoGO. We provide onboarding packets and tracking logs that align with state guidance.
Q4) Does Tennessee require special training for personal support services staff?
Yes, TDMHSAS rules outline governance, policies, standardised training and continuing educational requirements for personal support services agencies. Our PSSA policy set includes job descriptions, competency checklists and required training modules.
Q5) How do I enrol with TennCare and the managed care organisation?
TennCare operates through managed care contractors. Providers register with TennCare, then contact MCOs that cover medical, behavioural and long-term care. In 2025 beneficiaries choose among BlueCare, UnitedHealthcare Community Plan, and WellPoint for CHOICES LTSS. Our payer enrolment guide and templates streamline applications and credentialing.
