H.B. No. 4371 introduces a new subchapter, Subchapter T, to Chapter 531 of the Government Code, establishing the role of "certified complex care aides" within the private duty nursing program. This legislation defines a certified complex care aide as a parent, legal guardian, or family member of a recipient enrolled in the STAR Kids Medicaid managed care program who is certified to assist in providing private duty nursing services. The bill outlines the eligibility criteria for these aides, including the completion of required training and employment by a licensed home and community support services agency. It also mandates that the commission develop policies to facilitate the certification and training of these aides.

Additionally, the bill stipulates that the commission will reimburse home and community support services agencies for services provided by certified complex care aides at a rate no less than ninety percent of the licensed vocational nurse rate for private duty nursing services. The legislation emphasizes the importance of training, outlining specific areas of instruction required for certification, and establishes rules for the implementation of these provisions. The services by certified complex care aides are set to be allowed by September 1, 2026, with the act taking effect on September 1, 2025.

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