The Department of Health (DOH) recently issued a Dear Administrator Letter (DAL) announcing updated guidance documents for Personal Care Aide (PCA) training. Several new documents are included in the resources for PCA training, most modeled after the Home Health Aide (HHA) Training Program.

The updates outline the requirements for agencies wishing to apply for a PCA Training Program as well as PCA Training Programs already approved by DOH. These documents are available on the DOH website as well as the Health Commerce System (HCS).

The following documents have been updated:

• Alternative Competency Demonstration for the PCA Guide (guide is only available on the HCS)
• DOH Guide to the Operation of a PCA Training Program
• Appendix A
• Appendix B
• PCA Training Program Application

The following documents have been created and are now available:

• Nurse Instructor Application
• PCA Training Program Reapproval Application
• Sign-In and Sign-Out Form
• Suggested Equipment List
• Trainee Evaluation Form
• PCA Training Program Trainee Rights 

Agencies should note that existing DOH-approved PCA Training Programs and applicants who have already submitted applications are not required to submit a new application. Please send any questions to pcatp@health.ny.gov and review DOH’s list of changes made to the materials to assist with compliance.

Please contact Meg Everett if you have questions or concerns regarding the changes.

Contact: Meg Everett, meverett@leadingageny.org, 518-867-8871