Training Reimbursement

[jaratarRN]

I have heard, and read on some websites, that in NJ, as a new CNA, if you are hired at a licensed LTC facility, the facility has to reimburse you for the cost of your training. Now I have been hired and working at a facility for about two months now. I asked someone in HR about this, and they said they have no idea what I am talking about. She told me to go speak to the administrator in charge of our facility, but I wanted to have some info on hand first. Does anyone know about this rule and/or have you taken advantage of it? Does anyone have a link to the actual rules? I found some websites that had some info, but they didn't look super professional and I wanted to be armed with some good info before I went to talk to her.

My facility is one floor LTC and two floors subacute. Does anyone know if this still applies at facilities like mine?

Any info is much appreciated! Thanks in advance! :heartbeat

[lorelei1973]

Google "42 CFR part 483.152©(2)"

It's a federal law. (2) If an individual who is not employed, or does not have an offer to be employed, as a nurse aide becomes employed by, or receives an offer of employment from, a facility not later than 12 months after completing a nurse aide training and competency evaluation program, the State must provide for the reimbursement of costs incurred in completing the program on a pro rata basis during the period in which the individual is employed as a nurse aide.

[fuzzywuzzy, CNA]

I never knew this.

[lorelei1973]

I never knew this.

Most LTC's are happy knowing most brand new CNA's know nothing about this. I learned about this from one of my instructors who works at a 5-star LTC. They're quite up front about offering this to new hires (ok, the feds reimburse the LTC's, so if the facilities are not paying the employees, they're pocketing the money). If I fit in the category, I would definitely pursue reimbursement.

[fuzzywuzzy, CNA]

I got hired within 12 months of becoming certified, but I've been working there for over a year. I wonder if there's a time limit.

[lorelei1973]

I got hired within 12 months of becoming certified, but I've been working there for over a year. I wonder if there's a time limit.

The way I read it, there isn't a "statute of limitations" on reimbursement. The law reads that if you gain employment as a CNA not later than 12 months after completing training (that YOU paid for) the facility is required to reimburse you on a prorated basis. But of course, you have to inquire about this with your employer if they haven't offered, and if what they're telling you sounds fishy, I guess I would suggest contacting your state board of nursing to confirm the facility is in compliance with federal regulations. The next logical step would be to see a lawyer if you're so inclined. Here's a link, hope it works:

http://ecfr.gpoaccess.gov/cgi/t/text/text-idx?c=ecfr&rgn=div5&view=text&node=42:4.0.1.5.22&idno=42#42:4.0.1.5.22.4.205.3