NJ A4342

Division of Medical Assistance and Health Services must establish within six months a program allowing family members or enrollee-approved third parties to become certified homemaker-home health aides (CHHAs) for Medicare, Medicaid, or NJ FamilyCare enrollees aged 65 and older.

Home care services agencies employing these family members or approved individuals must pay all certification costs, with no repayment obligation required from the trainees.

CHHA services provided through this program must be reimbursed at a minimum rate of $30 per hour.

Family members and third-party individuals must complete all state and federal training, testing, and qualification requirements for CHHA certification and work under registered professional nurse direction.

The bill takes effect nine months after enactment, with the Department of Human Services required to apply for federal Medicaid waivers and state plan amendments to secure federal financial participation.