Ohio Administrative Code Title 173 - Department of Aging
👵 Ohio Administrative Code Title 173
Department of Aging
🔹 Overview
OAC Title 173 governs the policies, procedures, and programs administered by the Ohio Department of Aging. The department’s mission is to promote the well-being, independence, and dignity of Ohio’s older adults.
This includes:
Oversight of aging services,
Administration of assistance programs,
Regulation of senior care providers,
Protection of elder rights.
The authority for these rules comes primarily from Ohio Revised Code Chapter 173 and related statutes.
🔹 Key Provisions of OAC Title 173
1. Service Programs
Rules for administration of home and community-based services (e.g., home care, adult day programs),
Caregiver support programs,
Nutrition programs (like congregate meals and meal delivery),
Transportation assistance.
2. Licensing and Regulation of Providers
Standards for providers of elder care services, including home health agencies and senior centers,
Requirements for licensing, inspections, and compliance.
3. Rights and Protections
Policies to protect elder rights, prevent abuse and neglect,
Procedures for reporting and investigating complaints,
Confidentiality and informed consent rules.
4. Eligibility and Application
Criteria for older adults to access services,
Application processes for assistance programs.
5. Funding and Reporting
Guidelines for the allocation of federal, state, and local funds,
Reporting and accountability standards for providers and programs.
⚖️ Relevant Case Law Principles
There are relatively few court cases directly interpreting OAC Title 173, but key legal principles include:
✅ 1. Due Process in Service Denial or Termination
Principle:
When services are denied or terminated, individuals must receive notice and an opportunity to appeal, protecting against arbitrary deprivation of benefits.
✅ 2. Elder Rights and Abuse Prevention
Principle:
Courts strongly uphold protections against elder abuse and neglect, supporting agency authority to investigate and intervene.
✅ 3. Provider Accountability
Principle:
Providers found non-compliant with standards may face sanctions. Courts generally defer to agency expertise but require fair procedures.
✅ 4. Funding and Program Eligibility
Principle:
Eligibility criteria must be applied consistently and fairly; challenges often involve ensuring non-discrimination and equal access.
🔎 Hypothetical Case Example
Scenario:
An older adult’s in-home care service is terminated due to funding cuts. The individual appeals, arguing the termination was unfair and violated their rights.
The hearing officer reviews whether proper notice and procedures were followed.
The appeal upholds the termination but orders a transitional service period to prevent sudden loss.
📌 Summary Table
| Aspect | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Service Programs | Home care, nutrition, transportation, caregiver support |
| Licensing | Standards and inspections for elder care providers |
| Elder Rights | Abuse prevention, complaint processes, confidentiality |
| Eligibility | Criteria and application procedures |
| Funding | Allocation and reporting requirements |
RELATED Blog
0 comments