Authorizes certified medication aides to administer medications to nursing home residents.

The bill authorizes medication aides, who are certified by the Department of Health (DOH), to administer medications, as delegated by and under the authority of a registered professional nurse, in State licensed nursing homes. Current law and regulations authorize certified medication aides to practice in assisted living facilities, comprehensive personal care homes, dementia care homes, and assisted living programs. The bill also requires the DOH to conduct criminal history record background checks on applicants for initial and renewal certification as medication aides.

Authorizes certified medication aides to administer medications to nursing home residents.

The bill authorizes medication aides, who are certified by the Department of Health (DOH), to administer medications, as delegated by and under the authority of a registered professional nurse, in State licensed nursing homes. Current law and regulations authorize certified medication aides to practice in assisted living facilities, comprehensive personal care homes, dementia care homes, and assisted living programs. The bill also requires the DOH to conduct criminal history record background checks on applicants for initial and renewal certification as medication aides.