Bill > A00600

This bill amends existing public health law to include physical therapists, physical therapist assistants, occupational therapists, occupational therapy assistants, respiratory therapists, respiratory therapy technicians, and recreational therapists in the staffing standards for nursing homes. The bill defines these professional roles, specifying that they must be licensed or certified according to specific education law articles, with recreational therapists requiring a bachelor's degree and certification from the national council for therapeutic recreation certification. Starting January 1, 2022, nursing homes must maintain an average of 3.5 hours of care per resident per day, which can now include these additional therapy professionals. The required staffing hours are broken down into two categories: 2.2 hours per resident per day from nurse aides and therapy assistants, and 1.1 hours per resident per day from licensed nurses and professional therapists. The bill also requires nursing homes to post information about therapist staffing levels alongside existing nurse staffing information, making this information visible and accessible to residents, families, and staff. This legislation aims to expand the types of healthcare professionals considered in nursing home staffing requirements, potentially improving the quality and diversity of care for residents.

Health and Social Services

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A600