Is a Brightstar Care franchisee required to have a full-time registered nurse (RN) to comply with regulations?

According to Brightstar Care's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, whether a franchisee is required to have a full-time registered nurse (RN) depends on the specific regulations in their state. The FDD states that some states mandate a full-time RN for nursing agencies and/or home health agencies to comply with state regulations. These regulations govern the operation of such agencies. Therefore, it is not a universal requirement across all locations but rather a state-specific one.

This means that prospective Brightstar Care franchisees need to investigate the specific requirements in the state where they plan to operate their franchise. This involves understanding the state laws governing nursing agencies and home health agencies to determine if a full-time RN is necessary for compliance. The cost of employing a full-time RN, if required, should also be factored into the franchisee's financial planning.

The FDD also mentions that states may have licensing, certification, or registration requirements for home health agencies, nurse staffing agencies, or employment agencies. These requirements can include minimum education levels, related work experience, and fees. Additionally, franchisees must comply with state law requirements, including screening healthcare workers and meeting special training and competency standards related to infection control, abuse and neglect, patient confidentiality, and handling client finances. Franchisees are also responsible for maintaining comprehensive policies and procedures and may be subject to inspections and penalties for non-compliance.

Given the variability in state regulations, Brightstar Care franchisees must consult with local counsel to ensure they fully understand and comply with all applicable laws and regulations. This proactive approach will help avoid potential fines and penalties and ensure the smooth operation of their Brightstar Care agency.