Free resource
Texas home care survey-prep checklist
Pull three personnel files and three client records at random, then work down this list. Mark anything you cannot find as missing, because a surveyor will.
Policies and procedures
- Written policies cover every service you deliver, and only those services
- Every policy shows an effective date and a revision date
- A signed, dated record shows the policies were reviewed in the last 12 months
- Practices you changed this year are reflected in the written policy
- Staff can find the current version without asking
Personnel files
- One file for every person who delivers care, including contractors
- Application, verified references and signed job description on file
- Criminal history and registry checks dated before the first shift
- Required health screening documented
- Orientation and required training dated before the first shift, with topic and signature
- Annual performance or competency review for anyone employed over a year
Client records
- Signed service agreement and client rights acknowledgement
- Service plan matches what caregivers actually do in the home
- Service delivery documented in a consistent format
- Service plan reviewed at the interval your own policy sets
Incidents, complaints and corrective action
- Incident log is complete, current and signed by a supervisor
- Complaint log is kept separately and shows investigation and resolution
- Each problem found has a corrective action with an owner, a date and a follow-up check
- Abuse, neglect and exploitation allegations show the required state reports were made
Oversight
- Monthly review of incidents, complaints and training due dates, signed and dated
- Quarterly audit of a sample of personnel and client files
- Emergency preparedness plan is current and staff know it
Rules referenced: 26 Texas Administrative Code, Chapter 558. ApexCare Governance™ provides operational documentation and educational guidance. It is not a law firm and not a licensed regulatory consultant. It does not provide legal advice, interpret regulations, certify compliance, or guarantee any licensing or inspection outcome. Verify all current requirements directly with Texas Health and Human Services.
apexcaregovernance.com
Found gaps?
The Complete Texas Home Care System has the procedures, forms and logs for every line on this list, as editable Word files.