46:11:09:03Criteria for

designation as a qualified provider. A qualified provider providing personal care, respite care, companion care, or supported employment under the provisions of this chapter must meet the following criteria: (1) Have a signed provider agreement with the Department of Social Services; (2) Obtain a signed provider agreement with the department; and (3) Must meet the following qualifications: (a) Any employee must meet the age requirement for each service specified; (b) Any employee must pass a criminal background check; (c) Any employee must be able to follow written or verbal instructions provided by the participant, or the participant's family member or guardian or advocate, if any; (d) Any employee must have the abilities or skills necessary as determined by the participant to meet the participant's needs as outlined in the ISP; and (e) Have policies in the following areas: (i) Confidentiality; (ii) Drug-free workplace; (iii) Grievance; (iv) Emergency procedures and back-up plan; (v) Sexual harassment; (vi) Abuse, neglect, exploitation, and incident reporting; (vii) Safety; (viii) Universal precautions; (ix) Proper lifting techniques and body mechanics, back safety, and risk factors for back injuries; (x) Termination and notice requirements; and (xi) Payment and billing.

Source: 40 SDR 102, effective December 3, 2013.