The bill establishes a new program under the Oklahoma Health Care Authority that allows family members of Medicaid recipients to be recognized as family caregivers. This program will enable these caregivers to provide services to Medicaid members under the supervision of a Registered Nurse, provided the Medicaid member is under 21 years old and approved for private duty nursing services or paid family caregiver benefits. The bill outlines the qualifications and requirements for family caregivers, including a criminal history background check, and mandates that home care agencies ensure compliance with these standards.
Additionally, the bill amends existing definitions in the Home Care Act, particularly regarding the term "home care agency," which now includes updated language to clarify the roles of intermediary services organizations. It also expands the definition of "skilled care" to include family members recognized as caregivers under the new program, subject to specific practice standards established by the Authority. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, and includes an emergency clause for immediate implementation upon passage.