Starting a home health care business in Ohio is a rewarding opportunity that allows you to provide essential services to an aging population while building a sustainable business. With the senior population in Ohio projected to grow by 33.4% between 2010 and 2030, reaching over 3 million individuals aged 60 and older, the demand for home care services is rising (Ohio Department of Aging). If you’re looking to enter this growing industry, here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started.

Interested in exploring franchise opportunities in Ohio’s home care sector? Discover how to get started today.

1. Create a Business Plan

Before launching your home health care business, you need a well-structured business plan. This should include:

Your mission and vision for the business
The types of services you will offer (medical vs. non-medical care)
A competitive analysis of other home care providers in Ohio
Financial projections and a budget plan
A marketing strategy for reaching potential clients

2. Register Your Business in Ohio

To operate legally, you must register your business with the Ohio Secretary of State. You’ll also need to choose a legal structure, such as:

Sole Proprietorship – Easy to set up but offers no liability protection
Limited Liability Company (LLC) – A popular choice for small businesses as it provides liability protection
Corporation (C-Corp or S-Corp) – Best for larger businesses with multiple owners or investors

You’ll also need to obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS for tax and payroll purposes.

3. Obtain the Necessary Licenses and Permits

In Ohio, home health care businesses are regulated by the Ohio Department of Health (ODH). If you plan to provide skilled medical services, such as nursing or physical therapy, you must apply for a Skilled Home Health Services License.

Application fee: $250
Surety bond requirement: $50,000 for skilled services, $20,000 for non-medical services (Ohio Department of Health)

For non-medical home care services (personal care, companionship, housekeeping), you do not need a medical license but must comply with state business and employment laws.

Looking for available territories in Ohio to establish your home care business? Check out the opportunities here.

4. Hire and Train Qualified Staff

Your success depends on the quality of your caregivers, nurses, and administrative team. Make sure to:

Conduct thorough background checks on employees
Provide training to meet state compliance and industry best practices
Ensure proper certifications for medical professionals
Establish policies for patient safety and care standards

5. Set Up Billing, Insurance, and Payroll Systems

To ensure smooth operations, you’ll need systems in place for:

Billing and Payments – Accept private pay, Medicaid, and insurance reimbursements
Business Insurance – Liability, worker’s compensation, and general business coverage
Payroll & Taxes – A reliable system to manage employee wages and withholdings

6. Market Your Home Health Care Business

Reaching your target audience is essential for growth. Here are some effective marketing strategies:

Online Presence – Build a professional website and optimize it for local SEO (e.g., “Home Health Care Services in Ohio”)
Networking – Partner with local hospitals, senior centers, and healthcare providers
Community Outreach – Advertise in local newspapers, radio stations, and social media
Referral Programs – Offer incentives for physicians and clients who refer new patients

7. Launch and Begin Operations

Once everything is in place, you can officially launch your home health care business. This includes:

Ensuring compliance with state regulations
Finalizing client intake and care procedures
Continuously improving operations based on feedback and industry trends

Why Ohio Is a Prime Location for Home Health Care Businesses

Ohio has a rapidly aging population, with seniors expected to make up 26.3% of the state’s total population by 2030 (Ohio Department of Aging). With the increasing preference for aging in place, the demand for home health care services continues to grow. Launching a home care business now puts you in a position to serve this expanding market.

Ready to own a franchise and make a positive impact in Ohio’s communities? Start your franchise journey today.

Starting a home health care business in Ohio is not only a financially rewarding opportunity but also a way to make a meaningful impact in people’s lives. By following the right steps—from licensing and staffing to marketing and operations—you can build a successful and compliant home care business that meets the needs of Ohio’s seniors.

Considering a franchise model can simplify the startup process, offering training, branding, and ongoing support to help you succeed in this growing industry.