How to Become Medicare-Certified as a Home Health Agency
Medicare certification for a Home Health Agency is a 9–14 month process gated by state licensure, accreditation, and a CMS survey.
CMS requires every new Home Health Agency to obtain state licensure, choose an accreditor, complete a survey, and provide services to a minimum of 3 patients (with at least 7 completed visits) before billing Medicare.
Step-by-step
- 1
Form entity + obtain state HHA license
Each state has its own application; Florida AHCA, California CDPH, etc.
- 2
Choose an accreditor: CHAP, ACHC, or Joint Commission
All three are CMS-approved. ACHC and CHAP dominate home health.
- 3
File CMS Form 855A enrollment
Submitted to MAC. Includes ownership disclosure and capitalization proof.
- 4
Pre-survey patient onboarding
Provide care to 3 patients with 7 total completed skilled visits before survey.
- 5
Pass on-site accreditation survey
Typically 2–3 surveyors over 1–3 days reviewing clinical records, policies, and OASIS.
- 6
Receive CCN and start billing
CMS Certification Number issued — claims can flow to MAC.
Frequently Asked Questions
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