CT re-evaluates caregiver screening regulations

background checks have failed to happen, resulting in awful consequences. The state Department of Public Health, Social Services and Public Safety will work together on the initiative, with Governor M. Jodi Rell at the helm. Connecticut must therefore propose enabling legislation for the session in the next legislative program. The governor said the national background check for each prospective employee direct patient care must include a history search of both state and federal criminal records, abuse and neglect registries and databases, searchable as the Nurse Aide Registry. Long-term care facilities or providers covered under the new program include nursing facilities, home health agencies, hospice providers, long-term care hospitals, and intermediate care facilities for persons with mental disabilities, adult day care, and personal care assistants. Yet another step in the right direction, and a victory for ethics and common sense.]]>