DSS Distributes Revised Enforcement Procedures for Medication Aides

VHCA (9/4/2009)

Today the Department of Social Services (DSS) distributed revised “Provider Enforcement Procedures” related to the Registration/Provisional Authorization of Medication Aides.  Effective August 1, 2009 a medication aide administering medications in an assisted living facility (ALF) must be registered with the Virginia Board of Nursing or have provisional authorization from the Virginia Board of Nursing to practice as a medication aide.  (Standard 10, definition of medication aide, and Standard 660).  The updated DSS enforcement procedures were developed by DSS in collaboration with the Department of Health Professions and reflect the new effective date and the allowance for provisional authorization.  The enforcement procedures will be followed statewide by Licensing Inspectors of the Division of Licensing Programs.  ALFs are encouraged to contact their Licensing Inspectors with questions or for additional clarification about the revised procedures.