How to Become a Certified Medication Aide in Pennsylvania
In Pennsylvania, some long-term care facilities and assisted living settings allow trained staff to assist with medication administration under nurse supervision. If you’re already a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), becoming a Medication Aide can be a practical way to grow your healthcare career with additional training.
Step 5 — Get Written Authorization & Scope
- Receive written approval from your employer outlining allowed tasks, supervision, and documentation standards.
- File it with HR/education records.
Step 6 — Begin Supervised Medication Passes
- Follow the MAR, patient-ID checks, timing windows, and post-administration monitoring.
- Document immediately and escalate adverse findings to licensed nursing staff.
Step 7 — Maintain Currency
- Complete refreshers/CE and periodic skills re-checks as required by your facility or DHS (for ALR/PCH).
- Stay current with policy updates and error-prevention practices.
Tip: If you’re not sure which path applies, ask your employer which policy governs your unit and follow that training/authorization route.
How Long Does Medication Aide Training Take?
Most training programs take 4 to 12 weeks, depending on the format and setting.
- CNA-to-Med Aide programs in nursing homes may vary
- The DHS Medication Administration Training has standardized requirements for ALR/PCH staff
Ask your employer about training start dates and approved formats.
Do You Need a State Certification?
Pennsylvania does not issue a separate, statewide CMA license.
Instead:
- Authorization is managed by the facility
- Training and duties depend on employer policies
- Supervision is required by a licensed nurse or administrator
Always confirm details with your facility and the PA Department of Health – Nurse Aide page.
How Much Does a Medication Aide Make in Pennsylvania?
There’s no official wage line specific to “Certified Medication Aides.” Use Nursing Assistant wages as a salary proxy for entry-level expectations:
- $41,700 per year
- $20.05 per hour
📌 Source: BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, Pennsylvania, May 2024
Actual pay varies by employer, experience, and location.
How to Get a Job as a Certified Medication Aide
Once certified, look for entry-level jobs using sites like:
- MyNextMove
- Nursing home and hospital career portals
Some employers offer on-the-job orientation, even for new grads.
What Are the Next Steps After Becoming a Medication Aide?
Many Medication Aides go on to pursue:
- Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)
- Registered Nurse (RN)
- Specialized certifications in geriatrics, behavioral health, or home care
Some employers offer tuition assistance or on-the-job training to help CMAs continue their education.
Final Thoughts
If you’re a CNA in Pennsylvania looking to expand your role, becoming a Medication Aide is a high-impact step. It lets you take on more responsibility, support patient care, and build momentum toward advanced credentials.
Start by checking with your current facility or DHS-approved programs to see what opportunities are available.
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Athena is Co-founder and CEO of Dreambound.
