Home Health Agencies: Application for State Licensure and Federal Certification

Home health agencies (HHAs) primarily provide skilled nursing and other therapeutic services to people in their homes. Read Wis. Stats. § 50.49(1)(a) for the full definition of HHAs. See Defining "Skilled Care" for Wisconsin Home Health Agency (HHA) Licensure, P-01212 (PDF) for more information on skilled nursing services.

HHAs in Wisconsin can either work with the Division of Quality Assurance (DQA) or an outside accrediting organization for initial state licensure and/or Medicare certification surveys. Accrediting organizations must be approved by both (DQA) and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS).

HHAs can complete state licensure and Medicare certification separately or as one streamlined process.

Do not complete an HHA application if you are only providing personal care services such as:

  • Help with activities of daily living.
  • Housekeeping tasks.
  • Accompanying clients to medical appointments.

Learn more about Personal Care Agencies (PCAs).

Contact us

Licensure fees are paid via a check made out to the Division of Quality Assurance. Other application materials can be emailed or mailed.

Direct any questions to Thomas Rylander:

  • Email thomas.rylander@dhs.wisconsin.gov
  • Call 608-266-7297
  • Mailing address

    DHS Division of Quality Assurance
    Licensing, Certification and CLIA Section
    PO Box 2969
    Madison, WI 53701-2969
Last revised April 7, 2025