CMS Launches Staffing Campaign to Tackle Nursing Home Staff Shortages

January 14, 2025 Jennifer Mills

Nursing staff shortages have continued to plague the long-term care industry, with nursing homes and state inspection agencies being the most negatively impacted. To combat these staff shortages, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) launched a comprehensive campaign known as the "Nursing Home Staffing Campaign". This initiative aims to recruit and support nursing professionals, improve care quality, and create more sustainable working conditions in nursing homes and state inspection agencies.

Overview of the CMS Staffing Campaign

The Nursing Home Staffing Campaign includes a combination of funding and resources dedicated to creating opportunities and support systems for potential and current nursing professionals. The campaign includes financial incentives for RNs to work in nursing homes, easier training for CNAs, and new ways to attract and keep great staff.

A Focus on Nurse Recruitment and Training

The campaign focuses on recruiting more individuals and reducing barriers for nursing professionals to work in nursing homes and state agencies. Specifically, targeting individuals interested in careers as Certified Nursing Aides (CNAs), Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs), and Registered Nurses (RNs). Additionally, the campaign is aiming to provide detailed information about nursing career opportunities within the sector and clear pathways to nursing certifications and licensure.

  • Registered Nurses: Nursing homes have one of the largest challenges with recruiting and retaining registered nurses. To help the campaign is offering up to $50k in financial incentives, like tuition reimbursement and bonuses, to encourage registered nurses to work in the industry.
  • Certified Nursing Aides: In addition, the campaign is working to make it easier for individuals to become a Certified Nurse Aide (CNA), including offering tuition reimbursement and free CNA training programs to attract new talent and support career growth.

CMS Financial Commitment to Workforce Growth

The CMS has committed over $75 million to fund financial incentives and support systems for nursing professionals. This investment includes funding for tuition reimbursement, free CNA training programs, and other resources tied to the nursing home minimum staffing rule.

Looking Ahead: Impact on Nursing Homes

The Nursing Home Staffing Campaign is expected to help bring relief to nursing homes struggling with staffing shortages. By prioritizing recruitment, education, and financial incentives, the initiative aims to enhance the quality of care for residents while addressing long-standing workforce shortages.

For those interested in exploring nursing careers or learning more about the campaign, CMS’s new web pages and resources offer valuable guidance and support.

CMS campaign webpage

Nursing Home Careers webpage

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