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Bill

HD 2845

An Act authorizing the Executive office of Health and Human Services to establish a direct care worker medication administration program registry

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Dan Cahill and 2 co-sponsors

Massachusetts would establish a registry for direct care workers to administer medications, standardizing training and oversight for aides and personal attendants serving vulnerable populations.

Senate concurred
0
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Bill Summary · HD 2845

Legislative bill overview

HD 2845 authorizes Massachusetts' Executive Office of Health and Human Services to create a registry system for direct care workers to administer medications. The bill establishes a formal tracking and certification mechanism for non-medical personnel who provide hands-on care to vulnerable populations (elderly, disabled, children) and need to give medications as part of their duties.

Why is this important

Direct care workers—home health aides, personal care attendants, and residential facility staff—often assist clients with medication management, but lack standardized oversight or credentials. Creating a registry could improve patient safety by ensuring workers are trained and monitored, while also addressing workforce concerns about liability and professional recognition in a low-wage sector.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope and training standards: Unclear what medication administration training will be required, who pays for it, and how stringent oversight will be versus existing nursing regulations
  • Worker vs. healthcare professional boundaries: May blur lines between caregiving and nursing practice, raising questions about scope creep and whether this adequately protects clients or merely transfers liability
  • Implementation costs and funding: No specified funding source; unclear whether costs fall on workers, employers, agencies, or the state, potentially impacting wages or care accessibility

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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