ADVOCACY GOAL 1
Modernizing Medication Administration for People with IDD in New York
People with intellectual and developmental disabilities, and their families, deserve safe, simple options to take routine medications at home and in the community. It’s time to update outdated rules so people can live more independently with the right supports.
The Current Situation
- New York’s current nurse practice rules limit who can give medications in non‑certified settings.
- Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) often can’t give routine meds—even when they know the person best.
- People living on their own or in community housing face unnecessary barriers to safe medication support.
- Families are forced to choose between independence and safety, sometimes leading to crisis placements and avoidable institutionalization.
- Outdated regulations slow down innovation and choice.
Our Proposal – Support Proposed Bills that Aim to Modernize Medication Administration
- Support Bill A7284: Modernize policy so trained DSPs can assist with routine medications in non‑facility settings, with nursing oversight that doesn’t require an on‑site nurse (telehealth/consult).
- Support the companion proposal (number pending): Expand access to medication assistance for non‑certified services, including self‑direction, and remove barriers that push people toward institutional care or unsafe workarounds. Align New York with person‑centered, community‑based supports so people can live safely and independently
This is about dignity, equity, and modern community-based care, without adding red tape.
How it Works
- Training: DSPs complete standardized medication training before assisting.
- Clinical Oversight: Nurses provide guidance and oversight via consultation and telehealth.
- Monitoring and Technology: Simple tools help ensure the right medication, dose and time.
Expected Results
- More independence and better quality of life.
- More housing options that fit people’s needs.
- Less reliance on institutions when people just need routine medication support.
- Better health and medication follow‑through.
- Fewer emergencies and crises.
Frequently Asked Questions
No. Nurses will remain essential, should this bill become law, they will provide clinical oversight and be available via telehealth/consultation when DSPs assist with routine meds.
Yes—DSPs would complete standardized training, work under nurse oversight, and use basic monitoring tools to ensure safety.
Should this bill pass – trained DSPs, including those supporting people in non‑certified/community settings and self‑direction, with appropriate oversight.