Bill > SB1041

This bill establishes a new medical assistance program that allows family members to become certified as complex care assistants and provide specialized healthcare services to medical assistance recipients under certain conditions. The program targets recipients under 21 years old or those qualifying for private duty nursing services, with family members required to complete 75 hours of training and a competency evaluation to become certified. Complex care assistants can perform tasks like transferring, positioning, feeding, personal care, and administering certain medical treatments, all under the supervision of a registered nurse who will conduct home visits every 30 days. The home health agency employing the family member will cover the certification costs, and the complex care assistant will be reimbursed at a rate of at least $45 per hour. The bill requires medical assistance to seek federal approval to exclude income earned through this role from the family's countable income, and mandates the creation of an advisory working group to provide guidance on implementing the program. Participation is voluntary for both the recipient's family and home health providers, and the Deputy Secretary of Medical Assistance Programs must submit a report on the program's viability within three years of its establishment. The ultimate goal is to provide more personalized and accessible healthcare services for medically fragile individuals by leveraging family members' intimate knowledge and care.

Health and Social Services

https://www.palegis.us/legislation/bills/2025/sb1041