AHCA/NCAL is pleased that CMS has recognized that time worked by the nurse aides during the PHE may count towards meeting the federal 75-hour training requirement and is encouraging states to evaluate their NATCEP to consider time worked during the PHE to help temporary nurse aides become certified nurse aides (CNA). CMS has also clarified that the four-month regulatory timeframe for completing the nurse aide training and competency evaluation requirements after hire will be reinstated when the blanket waiver ends and will start at that time. Nurse aides will have the full four-month period starting from the end of the blanket waiver to successfully complete the required training and certification, regardless of the amount of time worked during the time the waiver was in effect. Federal requirements do not specify whether training must be delivered in a classroom versus a nursing home setting, and CMS acknowledges that training on many of the required topics can be obtained in a nursing home setting while working as a nurse aide under the waiver and through onsite experience and observation. 

AHCA/NCAL strongly encourages states, providers, and temporary nurse aides to explore ways to complete the nurse aide training and certification requirements as soon as possible to retain the thousands of individuals who have provided vital care and support to residents throughout the pandemic. The process of transitioning from a temporary nurse aide to a CNA takes time and these pathways vary depending on the state. We encourage you to contact your state licensing agency, state affiliate.