Caregiver background check rules in Maine

Yes. Maine requires a criminal background check before a caregiver works with clients. All employees, owners, and administrators must clear a Maine Background Check Center (MBCC) check under 22 MRS Ch. 1691, which also covers the CNA and Direct Care Worker Registry. The agency must also confirm no substantiated abuse, neglect, or misappropriation by Adult or Child Protective Services.

What does the check include?

What should you confirm with the state?

Training hours for personal support specialists aren't stated in the rule; confirm the current requirement with the Maine DHHS Division of Licensing and Certification. That training isn't required if services are limited to tasks such as meals and housekeeping. Operating without a license can bring fines of $500 per day, up to $10,000.

What other checks should you run?

Agencies that bill Medicaid or Medicare should also check the HHS Office of Inspector General exclusion list before hire and monthly, because payments for services by an excluded person can be recovered. If you use a background screening company, the Fair Credit Reporting Act requires written disclosure and the applicant's authorization first.