Caregiver background check rules in Oklahoma

Yes. Oklahoma requires a criminal background check before a caregiver works with clients. Direct care workers need a criminal history background check under 63 O.S. 1-1950.1 and a nurse aide registry check before serving clients, and may not have registry notations of abuse or convictions for crimes listed in 1-1950.1(F). Companion or sitter services must keep a copy of each employee's background check.

What does the check include?

What should you confirm with the state?

Agencies must carry liability insurance of $100,000 per occurrence and $300,000 aggregate, and administrators must be certified by the Oklahoma State Department of Health. A 2024 law changed some supportive home assistant provisions; confirm current requirements with the Department.

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.