Workforce issues are the top concern for many providers. In addition, facilities who have been able to utilize the temporary nurse aide are seeking solutions to transition them to certified nurse aides. Training bans and backlogs at training sites have increased this growing concern.
In 2017, CMS issued a
Survey and Certification Memo that provided clarification regarding Nurse Aide Training and Competency Evaluation Program (NATCEP/CEP) waiver and appeal requirements. Based on survey findings:
- A facility may be banned from the NATCEP/CEP program for two years.
- If a facility loses the authority to operate a NATCEP/CEP program, in some cases, they may regain the ability to operate their program prior to the end of the two-year ban through waiver request.
- If a facility has lost the ability to host a nurse aide training program due to survey findings, the facility may request a waiver.
- After review of the waiver request, the State Agency, Regional Office, or an appeal is made to the HHS Departmental Appeals Board, and the restriction may be lifted.
Complete details are outlined in the
memo.