What Is a Nursing Home Administrator License?
If you want to work as an administrator at a nursing home facility, you'll need to obtain state licensure in the field. Continue reading to learn about common requirements, including education and passage of a national exam. Schools offering Health Care Administration degrees can also be found in these popular choices.
Nursing Home Administrator License Overview
While all states require licensing for nursing home administrators, each state sets its own mandates. Though specific requirements vary, all states require you to hold a bachelor's degree, meet continuing education requirements and pass a licensing exam.
Licensing Requirements
Some states set a minimum age requirement to earn a nursing home administrator license. For example, in New York, you must be at least 21 years old, according to the New York Board of Examiners of Nursing Home Administrators (www.health.ny.gov). You also might have to submit to a background check to verify that you are of good moral character.
Typically, you'll need a bachelor's degree in a program that includes training in topics such as long-term care, management and gerontology. This degree needs to be from a state-approved, accredited institution.
Most likely, you'll also be expected to complete a state-approved training program or have comparable experience in the field. In some states, an internship at a nursing home qualifies in place of completing a training program. Additionally, work experience in an administrative position at a care facility might be sufficient.
National Licensing Examination
In every state, you'll be required to complete the Nursing Home Administrator Licensing Examination. This exam is administered by the National Association of Long Term Care Administrator Boards (NAB). The exam covers the daily tasks of an administrator and tests your competency in this field.
You'll be tested on your knowledge in the general care of residents, including admissions procedures, services planning, policy development and quality of care. You'll also have to understand how to create an effective communication system for staff members as well as recruit staff and develop benefits programs.
The test also covers financial management, budget creation and contract management. You'll be tested on the upkeep, design and planning of the nursing home environment. You'll be expected to be knowledgeable about legal regulations, government programs and basic leadership concepts.
To continue researching, browse degree options below for course curriculum, prerequisites and financial aid information. Or, learn more about the subject by reading the related articles below:
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