SB 1535 Summary

• Establishes a Community Health Worker Certification Act and directs the Oklahoma Board of Nursing to create and maintain a pilot program in counties with populations over 700,000 through December 31, 2016.

• Requires the Board to develop certification criteria, training standards, performance specifications with licensed health care provider supervision, and disciplinary procedures for certified community health workers.

• Defines community health worker core competencies including communication, interpersonal skills, service coordination, cultural competence, advocacy, and health care navigation.

• Creates a Community Health Worker Advisory Committee with nine members appointed by legislative leaders and the Governor to advise the Board on certification matters.

• Prohibits certified community health workers from administering medications or performing activities requiring nursing judgment; requires a written report on pilot program status by December 31, 2016.