Home Care Accreditation Program

Accreditation Program Overview:

The Iowa Center for Home Care (ICHC) has created an accreditation program for all ICHC members who offer supportive care services. This accreditation program will establish operational and quality standards that will set accredited agencies apart from others in the industry.

The program is made up of eighteen standards that include; privacy policy, service agreements, service plans, complaint procedures, complaint/grievance policies, workers compensation insurance coverage, payroll processes, workers compensation coverage, new hire checklist or orientation outline, training requirements and competency checklists, current licensure with required professional or state licensing boards, quality assurance/supervision policies, quality performance plan or equivalent, caregiver background screening, and compliance with all applicable federal, state and local laws.

To become accredited, agencies must submit the required documents for each standard, which will be reviewed by the Iowa Center for Home Care Accreditation Review Committee. Accreditation will be awarded to agencies that meet or exceed all eighteen standards. Once agencies achieve accreditation, they will distinguish themselves from peers in meeting the highest standards in operation and quality.

Benefits of Becoming Accredited

Demonstrates your commitment to quality and service delivery
Enhances agency’s ability to recruit and retain staff and remain competitive in the labor market
Proves the agencies commitment to adhering to the Code of Business Ethics and legal guidelines
Demonstrates that your employees have the proper training for their assignments and have been screened and passed background checks
Demonstrates to clients that employees are direct employees and that the agency carries General Professional Liability, Automobile Liability and Employee Dishonesty including coverage for third parties

Click here to view an informational flyer.

Recognition of Accredited Agencies

Listing on the Iowa Health Care Association’s website as an accredited agency with listing of services offered and description of services
Use of the Iowa Center for Home Care Supportive Services Accredited Logo for print material and website
Press release once Accreditation is achieved

How Does an Agency Become Accredited

How Does an Agency Become Accredited?

Agencies can become accredited by submitting an Accreditation Application with all of the supporting documentation to info@iowahealthcare.org. All applications will be reviewed by the Supportive Services Review Committee who will make sure all eighteen standards are met. The initial accreditation is good for one year and then can be renewed thereafter in two-year cycles.

Accredited Agencies

Home Instead Senior Care – Polk County

Home Instead Senior Care – Polk County has become the first Iowa Accredited Home Care Agency, announced by Iowa Center for Home Care (ICHC), a division of the Iowa Health Care Association (IHCA), today. By achieving accreditation, Home Instead Senior Care completed ICHC’s Home Care Accreditation Program to demonstrate that it meets operational and quality standards for excellence that set accredited agencies apart from others in the industry. Click here to view the media release.