Alternative training programs for home care aide-certified and medical assistant-certified recognize relevant training; provide opportunity for recruitment and career progression in nursing; and maintain a single standard for competency as a nursing assistant.

(1) The alternative program provides additional training, including clinical training, on topics not addressed in the specified training for certification as a home care aide or medical assistant, that will meet the requirements necessary to take the nursing assistant-certified competency evaluation.

(2) Successful completion of an approved alternative program may allow the home care aide-certified and medical assistant-certified to meet requirements to complete a competency evaluation. Successful completion of the competency evaluation may allow an applicant who is a home care aide-certified or medical assistant-certified to become a nursing assistant-certified.