An Act providing for certification of skilled nursing facility medical directors

This Massachusetts bill requires skilled nursing facilities to hire medical directors who hold certification from the American Board of Post-Acute and Long-Term Care Medicine or an equivalent body. New hires must be certified within five years of starting their role, while those already employed by January 1, 2024, have until January 1, 2029, to obtain certification. Facilities must submit proof of the director's certification, along with a resume and criminal background check, to the Department of Public Health during licensure applications and report any changes within 10 days. The law also establishes penalties, including fines and potential jail time, for individuals who represent themselves as certified medical directors without holding the required credentials.