CNA Certification in Massachusetts

How to Become a Certified Nursing Assistant in Massachusetts

In the state of Massachusetts, you have to use a very simple set of steps if you want CNA certification. All candidates have to attend a state approved program, which is overseen by the Department of Health and Human Services. This is the group that reviews programs and maintains the Nurse Aide Registry. There is a mandatory state competency exam for those who go through training, and this is often administered by the Red Cross or at the facility where training occurred.

Eligibility Requirements

All candidates must first qualify for enrollment in CNA certification training, and in Massachusetts, it requires the following:

Candidates have to be at least 16 years of age;All candidates must be able to read to the 9th grade level;Health screening must be done to ensure a negative TB status; andA criminal background check is required that includes a fingerprint check at the state and federal level.

Once this documentation is received the candidate is enrolled in the program and can begin their training.

Applying for CNA Certification in Massachusetts

There are some instances when a candidate can skip the training program and just take the competency exam, or even just submit their application to be listed on the registry. These exceptions to the rule include:

Reciprocity candidates who that submit evidence of training and the proper applications;Lapsed CNAs who have not renewed in the past 24 months (must take refresher training);A student or graduate nurse that submits evidence of training and the proper applications;Those who qualify for waivers under state code 42 CFR 483.150 Waiver of requirements;A foreign trained nurse that submits evidence of training and the proper applications; andFormer military personnel that submits evidence of training and the proper applications;

For candidates in need of training, the most common route is to work for an employer who has an approved CNA program. Alternately, the ARC (American Red Cross) has comprehensive NAT programs in Massachusetts as well.

All of the approved certification programs are going to require nothing less than 75 hours divided between clinical work and classroom hours. It is only after the many hours are done that the candidate can apply to take the exam.

Massachusetts utilizes the Nurse Aide Competency Evaluation (NACE) for testing. This includes a written test and a manual skills test. These can be given orally for those with testing problems, or as traditional written tests, and in English only.

Costs

The cost for CNA certification training in Massachusetts is quite high and is currently around $1200. It often takes more than four months to complete. Additionally, there are fees associated with the state exam, and currently it costs $93 to submit the application and register for the exam.

FAQ

The following facts are very useful to CNA certification candidates in Massachusetts:

A CNA candidate may work for a nursing facility for 120 days while participating in an approved training program. During those months they must get training, certification and licensing or risk being unable to continue working.To qualify for re-certification you must provide proof that you’ve been employed as a CNA for a minimum of 8 paid hours during the past 2 years.You are allowed three attempts at the exam. If you cannot pass, you have to repeat your CNA training.Massachusetts requires the candidate to take the NACE exam and pass it within 12 months of their coursework.CNA licensing is valid for two years, and is renewed biannual. Renewal notices are sent 60 days prior to expiration. If the CNA allows expiration of certification it means they must re-test to get the renewal.

Helpful Resources around the Web

Massachusetts Department of Public Health
Division of Health Care Quality
Nurse Aide Registry
99 Chauncy Street, 11th Floor
Boston, MA 02111
Phone: 617-753-8143