New Hampshire House Bill HB1585

New Hampshire 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 12/15/23
• Refer: 12/15/23
• Report Pass: 3/20/24
• Engrossed: 4/2/24
• Refer: 4/2/24
• Report Pass: 5/16/24
• Enrolled: 7/23/24
• Chaptered: 8/6/24
• Passed: 8/6/24

Caption

Relative to the position of certified assisted living medication aide and relative to the state loan repayment program for qualified nursing professionals, and making an appropriation therefor.

Impact

The legislation will directly influence state laws pertaining to the education and certification of nursing professionals. By formalizing the role of CALMAs, it seeks to ensure they meet a standard level of education and training, which includes a minimum of 40 hours of approved classroom instruction and the completion of a competency exam. Furthermore, it mandates ongoing education to maintain the certification, fostering an enhanced quality of care within assisted living facilities.

Summary

House Bill 1585 aims to establish the certification framework for Certified Assisted Living Medication Aides (CALMAs) and expand the qualifications and responsibilities of individuals in this role. The bill defines CALMAs under the Nurse Practice Act and outlines their authority to administer specific medications in designated residential settings. The implementation of this bill is intended to enhance the healthcare support available in assisted living facilities, ensuring that medication is managed by trained individuals. This move comes in recognition of the increasing healthcare needs within such residential environments.

Contention

One of the notable points of contention involves the appropriations made under the bill, allocating $300,000 to support a state loan repayment program for nursing professionals. Critics argue that while enhancing medication administration capabilities in assisted living environments is essential, the effective use and distribution of these funds must be scrutinized to ensure they adequately address the shortages and challenges faced in healthcare workforce settings. There may also be discussions on whether the bill sufficiently addresses the regulatory framework needed to oversee these newly certified aides appropriately.