DOH worked with DHS, DCCA, the American Red Cross, and long term care providers to develop a state-approved CNA training program as mandated by federal law for those nurse aides working in Medicare and Medicaid (M/M) certified nursing facilities. For the past 10 years there have been few state-approved training programs in Hawaii, which has raised concerns regarding the competency and skill development of nurse aide training. Due to this collaboration, nine state-approved training programs now exist. Additionally, a system was created to assess the competency level of all CNAs currently working in M/M certified nursing facilities to meet the new state standards and to ensure there is reciprocity for those Hawaii CNAs wishing to relocate to other states, which was not available previously.
DOH simultaneously worked with the above entities to provide for recertification of those nurse aides working in programs, facilities, agencies and/ or who are self-employed, outside of the M/M certified facilities.
According to the Department of Health statistics, there are 9,212 CNA's in the State of Hawaii. Presently, out of these nurse aides, current state law requires certification of only those nurse aides working in M/M certified facilities every 2 years. Efforts are under way to introduce legislation to allow for recertification of those nurse aides working outside of the M/M certified facilities, and development of baseline competency level.
Reference:Information Dissemination ACT 226, SLH 2007.
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