National Background Check Program for Long-Term Care Providers Assessment

This technical report evaluates the outcomes of the National Background Check Program for long-term care providers, which was established by the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act in 2010. The program aimed to assist states in developing systems for conducting background checks on prospective long-term care employees. The report details the participation of 29 states from 2010 to 2024, highlighting the program's success in helping 27 states create effective procedures for identifying employees with concerning criminal convictions. It outlines the efficient practices identified, such as the use of automated systems for background checks and monitoring changes in an individual's background status. The report also notes challenges faced by states, including legislative authority issues and inter-departmental coordination difficulties. Overall, states invested over $100 million in developing these systems. The report concludes with the observation that no further recommendations for the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services are necessary.