Missouri Senate Bill SR348

Missouri 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/17/23
• Refer: 4/18/23

Caption

Urges the Department of Health and Senior Services to remove barriers to increasing the available number of certified nurse assistants in Missouri

Impact

If the Department acts on this resolution, it could lead to an increase in the number of certified nurse assistants in Missouri’s healthcare system. Given the essential role that CNAs play in providing support to nurses and ensuring patient safety, increasing their numbers could help alleviate some of the pressures on the healthcare system, which has been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. This resolution suggests that enhancing access to testing for CNAs could create new employment opportunities and improve the quality of healthcare services in the state.

Summary

Senate Resolution 348 addresses the critical shortage of healthcare providers in Missouri, specifically focusing on the issue of certified nurse assistants (CNAs). The resolution recognizes that limited availability of testing for aspiring CNAs has been a significant barrier to increasing their numbers, contributing to the overall shortage of healthcare support personnel. By urging the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services to expand testing sites and hours, the resolution aims to facilitate greater accessibility for individuals wishing to pursue a career as CNAs.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SR348 appears to be largely supportive, as it highlights an urgent need within the healthcare community. Stakeholders are likely to appreciate the attention given to the barriers faced by potential CNAs and the call for action to resolve these issues. By recognizing the importance of CNAs and pushing for solutions, the resolution emphasizes a proactive approach to addressing workforce shortages in healthcare, reflecting a general consensus on the need for reform in this area.

Contention

One point of contention may arise concerning the implementation of the proposed expansion of testing facilities and hours. Critics could argue about the practicality of expanding such services, particularly in light of budgetary constraints or logistical challenges within the Department of Health and Senior Services. Additionally, stakeholders in the healthcare sector may have varying perspectives on how best to address the shortage of CNAs, leading to discussions on prioritization and resource allocation among the different strategies put forth.