This course provides a practical and compliance-focused overview of operating caregiver referral services in South Carolina. Learners will gain a clear understanding of independent contractor requirements under federal law, how South Carolina interprets “arranging care,” and the operational boundaries necessary to avoid licensure as an in-home care provider. The course is designed to help registry owners and staff maintain compliant, defensible, and sustainable referral-based business models.
Developed by: Scott Strachan RN, BSN
Target Audience
Nursing registry owners, referral service operators, administrative staff, and individuals involved in independent contractor caregiver referral models in South Carolina
Teaching Method
Self-directed learning completed independently, with scenario-based reflection.
Learner Objectives
Define the independent contractor referral model and its application in South Carolina
Identify behaviors that may be interpreted as “arranging care” and trigger licensure requirements
Explain how federal guidance such as Field Assistance Bulletin 2018-4 supports compliant operations
Overview
South Carolina presents a unique regulatory environment for caregiver referral services. While the state does not license nursing registries, it requires licensure for any business that provides or arranges in-home care. This distinction makes it critical for referral services to clearly understand and maintain operational boundaries that separate administrative support from care coordination.
This course explores how federal guidance, particularly the U.S. Department of Labor’s Field Assistance Bulletin 2018-4, provides the foundation for maintaining independent contractor classification. It also examines how South Carolina interprets actions such as scheduling, assigning, and supervising caregivers as indicators of arranging care, which may trigger regulatory oversight and licensing requirements.
Participants will gain practical strategies for maintaining compliance through proper communication, documentation practices, financial structure, and staff training. By the end of the course, learners will understand how to operate a referral service that aligns with both federal independent contractor standards and South Carolina’s regulatory expectations.
Disclosure
The planner(s) and author(s) of this educational activity have disclosed that there are no relevant financial relationships with any commercial interests related to the content of this course. This course is developed for educational purposes and does not receive commercial support.
Disclaimer
The information provided in this course is for educational purposes only and should not be construed as legal, financial, or professional advice. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, the content is not guaranteed to be free from errors or omissions. Participants are encouraged to consult with a qualified professional for specific advice related to their circumstances. The creators and presenters of this course disclaim any liability for decisions made based on the information provided.
We will send you a one-time access code.