Caregiver background check rules in West Virginia

Yes. West Virginia requires a criminal background check before a caregiver works with clients, using fingerprints. A provider of personal care services is a covered provider under the WV CARES program, which requires registry checks and fingerprint-based state and federal criminal background checks on all direct-access personnel, with State Police Rap Back monitoring. Disqualifying offenses include crimes under 42 U.S.C. 1320a-7(a) and others set by Inspector General rule.

What does the check include?

What should you confirm with the state?

West Virginia has no license for non-medical home care. Confirm with the Office of Health Facility Licensure and Certification whether you must register to access the central abuse registry, and which registries the WV CARES background check covers.

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.