Personal Care Agencies: Online Training
New online licensure and certification system for health and residential care providers
The Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) Division of Quality Assurance (DQA) is launching the DHS DQA Provider Portal, a new system for licensure, background checks, plan reviews, and other provider applications for assisted living facilities, adult day care centers, personal care agencies, and substance use and mental health treatment programs. Licensure/certification applications and plan review materials will not be accepted electronically or postmarked as of November 22, 2025, as we transition to the new system. We will accept applications and plan review materials starting December 15, 2025. Applications must be submitted using the DHS DQA Provider Portal. To prepare for this transition and for more information, visit our webpage.
Background check applications for all users
To prepare for the transition to the new DHS DQA Provider Portal, the Division of Quality Assurance (DQA) will not accept any new background check applications for entity operators, non-client residents, or other required individuals for new or renewing entity license/certification applications, or for rehabilitation review applicants as of November 22, 2025.
DQA will resume accepting background check applications on December 15, 2025, through the DHS DQA Provider Portal. To prepare for this transition and for more information, visit our webpage. Caregiver background checks completed by entities for employees and contractors are not affected by this transition.
We offer resources to help those interested in becoming a Medicaid-certified personal care agency (PCA). This online training will help you understand the process to become a PCA in Wisconsin.
We encourage applicants to review and understand these resources before applying.
Training resources
Before starting your online modules, have the following documents available for reference.
Select a link to learn more:
- Wisconsin Admin. Code ch. DHS 101: Introduction and Definitions - Learn applicable definitions for administering a medical assistance program in Wisconsin.
- Wisconsin Admin. Code ch. DHS 105: Provider Certification (PDF) - Learn more about the terms and conditions for provider certification. Note DHS 105.17 refers specifically to personal care services.
- Wisconsin Admin. Code ch. DHS 107: Covered Services (PDF) - Learn more about covered personal care services. Note DHS 107.112 refers specifically to personal care services.
- Wisconsin Admin. Code ch. DHS 106: Provider Rights and Responsibilities (PDF) - Understand the rights and responsibilities of providers to offer and claim reimbursement for services.
- Survey Guide: PCA Approval, P-00191 (PDF) - Find information on the survey process for PCAs in the state of Wisconsin.
Online training webinar
View the PCA forum webinars before starting the application process. The webinars designed to help applicants with the personal care agency certification process. It is an excellent tool for self-assessment. The webinars will help you gauge your readiness to begin the application process.