Policy Changes Needed to Secure the Future of Direct Care Workers

A recent article published in HealthAffairs emphasized how the COVID-19 pandemic strained the already fragile direct care workforce, which led to closures of vital home and community-based services (HCBS) providers and placed additional burdens on family caregivers. The federal government deployed short-term funding and flexibility through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) to stabilize the workforce, resulting in improved wages and workforce initiatives. However, these gains are now in jeopardy as the enhanced federal funds are depleted. To address this, policymakers must act swiftly to preserve recent progress and enhance workforce stabilization efforts. Insights from interviews and focus groups across states underscore the need for higher wages, improved training and support systems, and meaningful worker engagement in program development.

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​While states have made strides in utilizing ARPA funding to support HCBS, disparities exist in progress and resources among states. While immediate efforts have focused on stabilizing the workforce, longer-term strategies are needed to address compensation, recruitment, and retention challenges. National initiatives led by organizations and government agencies are underway to support workforce development, yet further investment and rigorous evaluation are essential to provide evidence-based solutions for future efforts. There is a need for better data collection and analysis to understand and address workforce challenges, highlighting the necessity for coordinated national data collection efforts.

HCAOA will continue federally and at the state level advocating for the support that the home care industry desperately needs to support the U.S. aging population, individuals with disabilities, and our Veterans.

Space is available for HCAOA members to attend the HCAOA’s National Home Care Advocacy Day, April 16 – 17, in Washington, D.C. Join your colleagues for this powerful in-person opportunity to speak directly with legislators and champion in-home care services. Together, we can make meaningful change! Registration is free.