In a recent meeting of the North Dakota Senate Human Services Committee, significant discussions centered around the restructuring of licensing for assisted living and basic care facilities. The meeting, held on April 18, 2025, highlighted the need for a streamlined approach to service delivery that better meets the needs of residents.

Sarah Aker, Executive Director for the Division of Medical Services in the North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services, emphasized the importance of collaboration with providers and stakeholders. Aker noted that many stakeholders do not clearly understand the distinctions between assisted living, basic care, and adult residential facilities. This confusion often leads to complications in service access based on payment sources, which can dictate the type of care individuals receive.

Aker proposed a new licensing model that would consolidate these categories under a single license. This change aims to simplify the process for consumers, allowing them to receive appropriate care without the need to change facilities as their needs evolve. The goal is to create a system where individuals can enter care once and remain in the same setting, receiving adjusted services as their health requirements change.

The committee members engaged in discussions about potential changes to the definitions within the licensing structure. Senator Hogan raised questions about the implications of removing basic care from certain definitions, suggesting that this could provide more flexibility in the licensing process. However, Aker indicated that any changes would require careful consideration and could necessitate further adjustments to existing laws.

The meeting underscored the ongoing efforts to enhance the quality of care in North Dakota's assisted living and basic care facilities. As the state moves towards a more integrated licensing system, the focus remains on ensuring that residents have clear access to the services they need, ultimately improving their quality of life. The committee's discussions will likely lead to further developments in the coming months as they work towards implementing these changes.