2026 ACA 156th Congress of Correction Pittsburgh_Program Book

Right-Sizing Roles: Transforming Nurse Staffing Through Strategic Role Design [CME|CEU|CERP] Room: 311 Primary Community of Focus: Nursing Overview: Amid a persistent national nursing shortage, correctional healthcare systems face unique challenges in maintaining quality care within secure environments. This presentation explores the design, implementation and impact of a Correctional Medication Aide (CMA) training program designed to address workforce gaps by strategically aligning clinical tasks with appropriate levels of training and licensure. By delegating routine medication administration and select patient care duties to specially trained CMAs, correctional facilities can optimize the use of licensed nursing staff for more complex clinical responsibilities. This role “right-sizing” not only alleviates the burden on nurses but also enhances operational efficiency, improves inmate access to care, and supports staff retention by fostering a more sustainable and collaborative care model. Drawing on

case studies, program outcomes, and policy considerations, this session offers a framework for other correctional systems seeking to strengthen their healthcare delivery through innovative workforce solutions. Learning Objectives: • Explain workforce pressures impacting correctional healthcare systems • Describe development of a regulatory-compliant Correctional Medication Aide (CMA) model leveraging strategic partnerships • Evaluate financial & operational impact of role realignment Moderator: Chris Black-Edwards , Deputy Director of Health Services, Texas Department of Criminal Justice, Huntsville, Texas Speakers: Carrie Culpepper , Chief Nursing Officer, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, Texas; Tommy Norwood , Managing Director, Field Operations, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Abilene, Texas

WORKSHOPS

Saturday, Aug. 1 ▼ 8 a.m.–5 p.m.

ACA 156 th Congress of Correction | Pittsburgh — 157