HOME CARE TECHNOLOGY SERVICES PROVIDER IN MICHIGAN

Fatumata Kaba
Jul 27
3 min read

ENHANCING INDEPENDENCE THROUGH TECHNOLOGICAL INNOVATION IN HOME CARE

Home Care Technology Services in Michigan are designed to support individuals with disabilities, older adults, and those with chronic conditions by integrating technology into daily care. These services are authorized under the Michigan Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Medicaid Waivers and must follow protocols set by the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS).

1. GOVERNING AGENCIES

Agency: Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS)
Role: Oversees provider enrollment, service authorization, and Medicaid compliance.
Agency: Michigan Medicaid Agency
Role: Handles Medicaid provider enrollment and reimbursement for Home Care Technology Services.
Agency: Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS)
Role: Provides federal oversight and ensures compliance with HCBS waiver rules.

2. SERVICE OVERVIEW

Home Care Technology Services provides individuals with access to technology that supports their independence and safety within their homes. These services include the installation, maintenance, and support of devices and systems tailored to the individual’s needs.

Approved providers may deliver:

Installation of smart home systems for safety and accessibility
Personal monitoring devices and alert systems
Remote health monitoring and telehealth integration
User training on device operation and troubleshooting
Routine maintenance and technical support
Documentation of service effectiveness and client satisfaction

3. LICENSING & PROVIDER APPROVAL REQUIREMENTS

Prerequisites:

Register your business with the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA).
Obtain EIN from the IRS and NPI (Type 2).
Maintain a physical office or service location in Michigan.
Demonstrate technical expertise in smart home technology and assistive devices.
Hire staff trained in technology installation, maintenance, and client education.
Develop protocols for device monitoring and client support.

4. PROVIDER ENROLLMENT PROCESS

Initial Interest and Application:

Request the Home Care Technology Provider Application Packet from MDHHS.
Submit a business plan detailing technology integration, maintenance, and client training protocols.
Include policies for safety management, device calibration, and data privacy.

Background & Credentialing:

Background checks for staff involved in technology installation or client interaction.
Verification of technical skills related to home care technology setup and monitoring.
Proof of ongoing training in safety and technology updates.

Program Readiness Review:

Demonstrate readiness to install, maintain, and troubleshoot home care technology devices.
Establish protocols for rapid response and technical support during device malfunctions.

5. REQUIRED DOCUMENTATION

Articles of Incorporation or LLC Certificate.
IRS EIN Letter.
NPI confirmation.
Lease or proof of office location in Michigan.
MDHHS-Compliant Policy & Procedure Manual including:
- Installation and maintenance protocols for home care technology.
- User training and support procedures.
- Data security and privacy guidelines.
- Financial tracking and client service logs.

6. STAFFING REQUIREMENTS

Role: Technology Program Manager

Requirements: Experience in home automation, healthcare technology, or IT management.

Role: Installation Technician

Requirements: Technical skills in device installation, maintenance, and user support.

Role: Customer Support Specialist

Requirements: Experience in client education and technical troubleshooting.

All staff must complete:

MDHHS orientation and HCBS Waiver training.
Annual training on device maintenance, safety, and customer support.
Confidentiality, ethics, and client rights training.

7. MEDICAID WAIVER SERVICES

Michigan Medicaid Waivers that authorize Home Care Technology Services include:

MI Choice Waiver
Habilitation Supports Waiver
Children’s Waiver Program

Approved providers may deliver:

Installation and maintenance of smart home systems
Remote health monitoring support
User training and ongoing technical assistance

8. TIMELINE TO LAUNCH

Phase: Business Formation

Timeline: 0–1 week

Phase: MDHHS Application Review

Timeline: 60–90 days

Phase: Device Procurement and Technician Training

Timeline: 30–60 days

Phase: Medicaid Enrollment

Timeline: 60–90 days

9. CONTACT INFORMATION

Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) – Division of Long-Term Care Services
Email: ltcprovider@michigan.gov
Phone: (517) 335-1980
Website: https://www.michigan.gov/mdhhs
Michigan Medicaid Agency – Waiver Services
Website: https://www.michigan.gov/mdhhs (shared portal with MDHHS)