This bill amends the certification process for medication aides in Iowa, specifically by allowing individuals certified in other states to obtain certification in Iowa without the need for additional requirements, such as prior employment in the state. The Department of Inspections, Appeals, and Licensing (DIAL) is tasked with establishing a medication aide certification registry on its website, which will facilitate the submission of proof for successful completion of DIAL-approved medication aide certification examinations. Additionally, DIAL is prohibited from charging fees for accessing this proof.

The bill also mandates DIAL to adopt rules governing the qualifications and training of medication aides across various care facilities, including nursing homes and intermediate care facilities. These rules will cover the administration of medication aide challenge examinations and the acceptance of documentation from individuals certified in other states. Furthermore, the bill rescinds certain existing administrative rules related to medication aide certification and requires DIAL to make necessary conforming changes to implement the new provisions effectively.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 135C.34