The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) requires Home Health Agencies to have an individual who is designated as responsible for the overall operation and services of the agency. This individual is the Administrator, who is appointed by and reports to the Governing Body or Board of Directors. The Home Health Agency must maintain documentation of the Administrator’s appointment by Governing Body or Board of Directors.
Some of the Administrator’s responsibilities include:
- Responsible for all day-to-day operations of the Home Health Agency.
- Ensures that a clinical manager is available during ALL operating hours.
- Ensures that the Home Health Agency employs qualified personnel.
- Ensures the Home Health Agency has employee policies and appropriate job qualifications for personnel.
- Ensures when the Administrator is not available, a qualified, pre-designated person, who is authorized in writing by the Administrator and the governing body, assumes the same responsibilities and obligations as the Administrator.
- Ensures the Administrator or a pre-designated person is available during all operating hours.
- Ensures the accuracy of public information, materials, and activities.
- Responsible for establishing and implementing an annual agency budget.
- Ensure the annual agency policy and procedures manual is updated as needed and reviewed at least annually.
- Directs and organizes ongoing functions at the Agency to assure the availability and provision of care and services.
- Ensures the home health agency maintains an effective, on-going, agency-wide, data-driven Quality Assessment and Performance Improvement (QAPI) program.
- Ensures the agency maintains appropriate staffing.
- Evaluates the need for adequate resources and space to provide services effectively.
- Attends to and participates in staff, education, and agency committee meetings as needed.
- Maintains clear and effective channels of communication within the Agency.
- Maintains confidentiality in all aspects of job
- Complies with laws, regulations, and standards for job performance.
Home Health Agencies need to make sure their Administrator’s are aware of their responsibilities and are actively involved. Administrators need to have a signed and dated job description in their personnel file indicating their job duties and responsibilities as an Administrator. Additionally, they should be evaluated at least annually regarding their performance as an Administrator.
To ensure your Home Health Agency is compliant or for more information on the Administrator’s roles and responsibilities contact Innovative Consulting Services, LLC 970-980-1027.