Georgia’s veteran population is growing each year and bringing with its growth new and mounting health issues. As our veterans age and develop health issues, or return from combat with injuries, the medical community in Georgia has found the need to grow and improve more vital than ever before. One honorable and useful way to throw your hat into the ring and help your state and your nation’s veterans is to start a veteran personal care home in Georgia.
Order an application package from the Office of Regulatory Services Personal Care Home Program. The address and phone number for the office is: ORS Personal Care Home Program 31st Floor 2 Peachtree St. Atlanta, GA 30303-3167.
The main phone number is 404-657-4076. Complete the application as thoroughly as possible and submit it to the ORS Personal Care Home Program office.
Obtain a business license from your county licensing office and a “Certificate of Need” from the Department of Community Health, Division of Health Planning if you will house more than 24 residents.
Locate the building where the residents will be housed and complete the requirements to operate in the area. Some locations have zoning requirements, therefore it is best to determine whether you are able to operate in a residential area or a business area.
Determine the safety requirements that your personal care home will require. Be sure to think about things like handrails, grab bars, non-skid surfaces and the set water temperature for the home, which should not exceed 110 degrees Fahrenheit.
Screen any staff that you will hire for drug use and criminal history. They will need to have basic training in first aid techniques, CPR, resident rights, 16 hours of continuing education yearly and have a physical exam and TB screening.
