HCP News Alert 7.17.2026
DOH Immediately Discontinues Alternative Competency Demonstration for PCA Certification
The New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH) has immediately discontinued the Alternative Competency Demonstration (ACD) as a pathway to Personal Care Aide (PCA) certification. The change was effective yesterday, July 16, 2026.
Agencies currently using or planning to use the Alternative Competency Demonstration should review their training programs immediately.
See DAL # DRS 26-02, HHCBS #26-05 for additional information.
What Changed?
According to NYSDOH, recent observations identified compliance concerns associated with the program, leading the Department to discontinue the ACD pathway.
Effective Immediately
Individuals seeking Personal Care Aide certification must now complete a full Personal Care Aide Basic Training Program offered through either:
- A NYSDOH-approved Personal Care Aide Training Program, or
- A New York State Education Department-approved Personal Care Aide Training Program.
Training programs must meet the minimum requirements established in 18 NYCRR § 505.14(e).
Important for Agencies Currently Conducting an ACD Class
If an agency is currently conducting an Alternative Competency Demonstration class, NYSDOH directs that the class must:
- Cease immediately, or
- Be converted into a Personal Care Aide Basic Training course.
In addition, all individuals enrolled in an Alternative Competency Demonstration class as of the date of the Dear Administrator Letter (July 16, 2026) must complete the full 40-hour Personal Care Aide Basic Training program in order to obtain certification.
NYSDOH’s Rationale
The Department states that while the Alternative Competency Demonstration was originally established to address workforce needs and provide regulatory flexibility, its continued use now presents disproportionate compliance risks for training programs, candidates, and patients.
NYSDOH also notes that approved PCA training programs:
- May not charge candidates a training fee;
- Are available throughout New York State; and
- Require a minimum of 40 hours of basic training.
A current list of approved Personal Care Aide Training Programs is available from the New York State Department of Health.
What Providers Should Do Now
Providers should:
- Determine whether any current or planned PCA training classes are using the Alternative Competency Demonstration.
- Transition any affected participants into a compliant 40-hour Personal Care Aide Basic Training program.
- Notify training staff and program administrators of this immediate change.
- Review hiring and onboarding processes to ensure all future PCA candidates complete an approved Basic Training Program.
HCP will continue to monitor this issue and provide additional guidance if the Department issues further clarification. Please direct questions regarding DOH guidance to mailto:pcatp@health.ny.gov.
