10/29/2026

CMS Launches $275 Million Nursing Home Staffing Initiative

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) launched its $275 million Nurses for Nursing Homes initiative on Oct. 23 to recruit and retain nurses in nursing homes experiencing workforce shortages. The nationwide program offers financial incentives to eligible nurses who commit to working in qualifying facilities, including nursing homes across Ohio.

What You Need To Know

• Financial incentives: Eligible registered nurses (RNs) and licensed practical nurses (LPNs) may receive up to $40,000 in student loan repayment and/or a $10,000 stipend.
• Service commitment: Participating nurses must work at least 30 hours per week for three years at a qualifying nursing home.
• Facility eligibility: The program prioritizes rural communities and areas experiencing significant nursing shortages. Ohio facilities are included on the CMS list of qualifying nursing homes.

What Happens Next

• Recruitment assistance: CMS workforce partners will connect eligible nurses with participating nursing homes to help fill vacancies.
• Program participation: Nursing homes do not apply for eligibility. CMS determines qualifying facilities, while nurses apply individually for financial incentives.
• National collaboration: LeadingAge is working with state partners to connect eligible member nursing homes with organizations coordinating nurse recruitment.

What to Do

• Check eligibility: Review the CMS qualifying nursing homes list to determine if your Ohio facility is included.
• Share the opportunity: Direct prospective nursing staff to the Nurses for Nursing Homes application portal to review requirements and apply.
• Review program requirements: Consult the CMS Frequently Asked Questions for details on eligibility, financial incentives and participation.

Read LeadingAge's coverage of the program launch for additional information.