Medication Aide Program

This program is mandated by the Texas Health and Safety Code, Chapter 242, Subchapter N, concerning the administration of medications to facility residents, and the Texas Health and Safety Code, Chapter 142, Subchapter B, concerning the administration of medication by a home and community support services agency.

HHSC Published Provider Letter 2023-14 – Web-based Licensure System for Nurse Aides and Medication Aides

HHSC published Provider Letter 2023-14 – Web-based Licensure System for Nurse Aides and Medication Aides (PDF). This PL announces that effective July 5, 2023, nurse aides, medication aides, NATCEPs, and providers will complete all licensing applications in TULIP, and provides important dates and information related to TULIP’s benefits and features, as well as instructions for making a successful transition to the TULIP Online Licensure Application System.

TULIP Credentialing Transition Grace Period Extended

Nurse Aides (NAs), Medication Aides (MAs), Nursing Facility Administrators (NFAs), and Nurse Aide Training Competency Evaluation Programs (NATCEPs) are now required to use the new credentialing system in the Texas Unified Licensure Information Portal (TULIP) for licensing certification or permitting activities.

Note: HHSC is extending a grace period for all NAs, MAs, NFAs and NATCEPs to allow users time to learn and understand the new credentialing system. All NAs certifications, MA permits, NFA licenses and NATCEP approvals active on June 16, 2023, will be considered active until April 30, 2024.

For registration issues in TULIP, email HHSC TULIP Support.

For NA questions, email HHSC Nurse Aide Registry.

For MA questions, email HHSC Medication Aide Program.

For NFA questions, email HHSC NFA Licensing Program.

For NATCEP questions, email HHSC Regulatory NATCEP.

Announcement for Medication Aide online system

As of 07/05/2023, medication aides and applicants for a medication aide permit will apply via Texas Unified License Information Portal (TULIP), a web-based licensure system designed specifically for licensed long-term care providers and licensees. TULIP will allow medication aides to complete all permit and application functions online. For assistance with using TULIP, see user guide link on the TULIP landing page.

Log into TULIP account to create applicant registration, login and reset password.

Check medication aide status. We no longer provide written verification of permitted Medication Aides. This website will assist with verifying the status.

To contact the program, email the Medication Aide Program.

Medication aide permitting activities conducted by the Credentialing Unit include:

  1. Permitting activities, including continuing education, issuance and renewal
  2. Approving and monitoring of medication aide training programs in educational institutions
  3. Developing educational, training and testing curricula
  4. Coordinating and administering tests

List of Convictions Barring Employment or Disqualifying a person from HHSC Licensure as a Nurse Aide or Medication Aide (PDF).

Medication aide enforcement activities conducted by the Professional Credentialing Enforcement Unit (512-438-5495) include:

  1. Coordinating referrals and due process for medication aides related to findings of misconduct and/or violation(s) of the Texas Health and Safety Code, Chapter 242 or Licensing Standards for Medication Aides at 26 Texas Administrative Code, Chapter 557.
  2. Imposing and monitoring sanctions.

Check the status of a medication aide on the Employability Status Check Search. Enter the medication aide's name or social security number.

FAQs Related to the New TULIP Credentialing System

HHSC implemented a new credentialing system in the Texas Unified Licensure Information Portal (TULIP) on July 5, 2023. This transition has resulted in issues that have affected individuals trying to use the system. HHSC IT is working diligently on correcting these issues.

The following are some of the frequently asked questions HHSC has received:

What do I do if I have problems with registering in TULIP?

Answer: If you’re experiencing registration issues, email TULIP Support at TULIP Support.

Who do I contact if I can’t generate or submit an application?

Answer: If you’re experiencing issues with generating or submitting an application, email TULIP Support at TULIP Support.

When I report a technical issue to TULIP Support, what information should I include?

Answer: For technical support issues, read How to report TULIP Technical Support Issues (PDF).

Answer: In all cases, the following information will help IT answer your question or resolve your problem:

  • Provide a detailed description of the question or problem, including USERID, Facility/Agency license number (if licensed), NFA License (if applicable), application number, form number, screen and other details.
  • Include screenshots if possible. Do not include personally identifiable information, HIPAA protected information, or other protected data.
  • Please provide a call-back number in case we need to contact you to discuss the issue.

Is there a resource for more information regarding TULIP?

Answer: TULIP Online Licensure Application System | Texas Health and Human Services.

How long should it take to receive a response from TULIP Support?

Answer: TULIP Support is receiving a large volume of emails and the wait time for a response can be weeks.

Who do I contact if I have questions about information I need to enter into an application?

Answer: For questions about the application process, use the following contacts:

How long will I have to wait if I call the Nurse Aide Registry Call Center?

Answer: The call center is currently experiencing a large volume of calls, and the wait time can be up to three hours. Note that the system automatically disconnects all calls still in queue at the end of the day.

Is there any training available regarding the new TULIP credentialing system?

Answer: We provide the following Computer Based Trainings

New FBI Criminal Background Check Requirement

Beginning August 1, 2021, HHSC will conduct fingerprint based criminal history checks on medication aides who apply to renew their permit.

Prior to renewal, the medication aide will be notified of the fingerprinting requirement via mail or email. If the medication aide attempts to renew prior to their renewal month, the renewal will not be processed until fingerprinting is completed.

Fingerprints must be submitted through the Department of Public Safety’s vendor. Find a list of locations and information about scheduling an appointment for fingerprinting. To obtain the require service code, email the Medication Aide Program.

The cost to submit fingerprints is $38.25 and the responsibility of the medication aide. This is a one-time cost, fingerprints are not required to be submitted again.

Provider Letter 2021-15 (PDF) provides complete information on the implementation of the fingerprint based criminal history checks. If you have any questions about this communication, email the credentialing section or call 512-438-2025.

For a Computer Based Training (CBT) on how to complete a criminal background check review the Texas Medication Aide Curriculum information.

Texas Medication Aides Curriculum

Request for Criminal History Evaluation Letter for Medication Aide Permit

Individuals interested in obtaining an MA permit may request HHSC to review their personal criminal history information prior to applying for an MA permit. Complete Form 5537-MA (PDF) and follow the instructions on the form to complete the DPS criminal history record process.

Special Licensure Provisions for Military Service Members

Military service members or veterans may have met some licensing requirements as a result of their military service or other training, knowledge, and experience. Military spouses of current, active duty military service members may also have met some licensing requirements related to this status. Modifications to renewal requirements may also be available for some military service members on active duty.

For more information regarding special licensure provisions military service members, military veterans or military spouses may qualify for, review Senate Bill 1307, 84th Regular Legislative Session, 2015 (PDF).

We extend our heartfelt thanks to military service members, veterans, and their families for their dedicated service to the United States of America and to the State of Texas.