IL SB3525

Department of Healthcare and Family Services shall administer and enforce a Certified Medication Aide Program to regulate certified medication aides in supportive living facilities.

Facilities must certify that employment of certified medication aides will not replace nursing staff, that a registered nurse will be on-duty to supervise medication administration at all times, and that only certified aides (besides licensed professionals) will administer medications.

Applicants must be at least 18 years old with a high school diploma, demonstrate English language and math competency, hold current CNA certification with 2,000 hours of practice in the past 3 years, pass a criminal background check, and complete a Department-approved course including 60 hours classroom, 10 hours simulation lab, and 30 hours clinical practicum.

Certified medication aides cannot administer Schedule II controlled substances or inject medications (subcutaneous, intramuscular, intradermal, or intravenous) and cannot perform direct-care assignments when working as a medication aide.

Department must submit a report on patient safety, efficiency, and medication errors to the General Assembly no later than 2 years after the effective date; uncertified practice carries civil penalties up to $10,000 per offense.