CMS launches program to recruit, retain nurses in nursing homes

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services has launched a new initiative to help recruit and retain nurses in nursing homes, the agency announced Oct. 23. Under the Nurses for Nursing Homes initiative, nursing students and licensed nurses interested in working in a nursing home could be eligible to qualify for up to $40,000 in student loan repayment and/or a $10,000 stipend in exchange for a three-year commitment to work in a qualifying nursing home in a rural or higher labor-shortage area. CMS said the $275 million program is expected to support more than 4,000 nurses nationwide and will be funded through civil monetary penalties collected by CMS and states from nursing homes. CMS has committed $100 million, while states are committing to at least $175 million. A website for the program includes details on eligibility requirements, open positions, details on how to apply and other information.