Ward and Collett Bill Enabling Better Service at Long-Term Care Facilities Heads to the Governor’s Desk

HARRISBURG - The Senate today approved a bill introduced by Sens. Judy Ward (R-30) and Maria Collett (D-12) that would enhance the availability and quality of service at long-term care facilities in Pennsylvania, sending it to Gov. Josh Shapiro's desk to be signed into law.

"Today's passage of this critical legislation means that long-term care facilities will have greater flexibility in how to staff their operations, enabling them to better care for their residents," Ward said. "The creation of the position of certified medication aide will add to the career ladder of certified nurse aides and help our long-term care providers recruit the talented staff they need."

"As we continue efforts to reduce health care staffing gaps, we must ensure the dedicated workers we do have are empowered to provide the highest level of care possible," said Collett. "Today's passage of Senate Bill 668 represents a victory for Pennsylvania's long-term care residents and the staff who work most closely with them. I was proud to work alongside fellow nurse, Sen. Judy Ward, to get this legislation across the finish line, and I look forward to seeing Gov. Shapiro sign it into law."

Senate Bill 668 would help address a workforce shortage that exists in Pennsylvania's nursing homes. The shortage, which existed prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, has only grown in recent years as health care professionals have left the field due to burnout.

The bill would enable certified nurse aids (CNAs) to train to become certified medication aides (CMAs) and deliver common, minimally invasive prescribed medications to residents of nursing facilities. Currently, registered nurses and licensed practical nurses are the only authorized caregivers who can administer medications to nursing home residents.

CNAs would be able to complete a certified medication administration program established by the Pennsylvania Department of Health. The program would include a minimum of 80 hours of classroom instruction, not including testing or instructor evaluation of competency, and 20 hours of skills and demonstration.

CNAs who complete the program would be registered as CMAs and would be authorized to administer certain prescribed medications in health care facilities. The certification would require renewal every two years.

Residents can follow Ward on Facebook at Facebook.com/SenJudyWard and X (Twitter) @SenatorJWard for news about legislation and the 30^th Senate District. Contact information for her district offices and other information can be found on her website at SenatorJudyWard.com, and constituents also can sign up for her e-newsletter at SenatorJudyWard.com/enewsletters.

Ward contact: Nathan Akers
717-787-2421