HCAM Outlines 2022 Priorities (SNF)
As we start 2022, the focus for the association remains on three on-going issues – funding to address the operational changes brought on by the pandemic, regulatory challenges and policies to address the workforce crisis. Increasingly, HCAM has turned to the legislative process to address these matters. The association’s priorities for early 2022 include the following issues.
Continuation of the Census Grant Program
HCAM is requesting the continuation of the census grant for nursing facilities from October 2021 through June of 2022. HCAM continues to advocate for the passage of this funding as soon as possible to send further assistance to facilities hardest hit by the pandemic.
House Bill 5609 – Regulatory Reform
This legislation is the culmination of efforts between HCAM and the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) to address the inefficacies of the survey process. The bill adds a quality assurance monitor to each survey team, offering options for LARA to contract out reviews of priority 3 and 4 facility reported incidents, establishing guidance on what should be reported by facilities, directing CMP monies back to the paying facilities to address the identified deficiencies, requiring communication from surveyors upon entry, exit, and prior to issuance of an immediate jeopardy citation, requiring surveyors to remain in the building until an IJ is abated, and codifying the IDR process.
House Bill 5089 – TNA to CNA Transition
HCAM continues work to ensure a bridge for the 3,000+ individuals working as waiver aides in Michigan’s nursing facilities. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid directed states to establish pathways for individuals hired under the 1135 waiver to obtain their registry as a CNA. House Bill 5089 allows for remote/online training and testing for these temporary workers to be registered as a CNA, recognizing hours worked toward the required training hours, and taking into account the limited opportunities to fulfill requisites during the pandemic.
Legislation Addressing Staffing Agency Costs
HCAM is undertaking legislative efforts to address the issues that come with the increased usage of staffing agencies in light of the current workforce challenges. HCAM members have indicated the exorbitant prices being charged by staffing agencies. The association is advancing legislation that would place caps on these charges, and create a regulatory framework that includes requirements such as ensuring staff provided by agencies are appropriately licensed/certified.
House Bill 4316 -Medication Aides
The legislation provides an opportunity for a qualified CNA to complete additional education and testing to be registered as a medication aide. Responsibilities of medication aides would include administering regularly scheduled medication under the supervision of a registered nurse. The legislation clarifies that medication aides would not be permitted to administer controlled substances, medications in injectable forms, or the initial administration of medications. The core duties of nursing will remain with the nurses in the facility – medication aides will simply provide further support to help provide residents with the care they need.