Human Services and Gerontology Programs
Professional Development Opportunities
Coulee Region Long-Term Care Workforce Coalition
More than a job, a profession . . .a long-term care workforce coalition is born!
“Developing regional strategies to improve the recognition, retention, and recruitment of the long term care workforce.”
Why a Long Term Care Workforce Coalition?
Direct care workers provide valuable, essential, and compassionate care to individuals and families who need services. The work is challenging, satisfying, needed, and significant. And, our long term care workforce faces serious challenges!
Bi-monthly meetings feature training, current information, and collaborative projects. The meetings are open to everyone with memberships offered.
2009 Meetings (10 a.m.-12 p.m.)*
Jan. 21 , Independent Living Resources, 4439 Mormon Coulee Rd., La Crosse
March 19, Independent Living Resources, 4439 Mormon Coulee Rd., La Crosse
May 20, Independent Living Resources, 4439 Mormon Coulee Rd., La Crosse
July 15, Bethany Riverside, Faith and Life Center, 2575 S. 7th, La Crosse
*Call to confirm dates and location
The EDvantage grant program of UW-Extension supported the development of a regional coalition designed to address significant workforce issues with the field of long term care. Leadership development programs, programs on recruitment and retention, as well as public education and outreach on the looming workforce crisis were part of the project’s activities. Since December 2005, the coalition has grown to over 30 provider organizations and individuals who meet regularly to develop programs and projects that address the growing crisis in long term care. Meetings feature training and project planning on alternating months.
This workforce is . . .
Substantial
Over 68,000 direct care workers in Wisconsin form a substantial part of our state’s health care economy.
Fast-growing
Nursing aids are the 3rd fastest growing and home health aids are the sixth fastest growing occupations in Wisconsin.
Underpaid
One the average, direct care workers are paid little more than $9/hour with nursing aides earning 22% below the median hourly wages for all occupations Direct care workers are twice as likely to receive government assistance because of low income.
Insufficient in size
A sharp increase in demand for services is worsening the shortage of workers. The numbers of elders aged 85 and over needing care will grow by 50% in the next 25 years.
At risk
Annual turnover rates range between 22% to 100% for area agencies and facilities, costing over $3,500 per employee and reducing the quality of care for consumers.
Sources: WI Health Care Workforce 2007 Annual Report; WI Long Term Care Workforce Alliance
For more information contact: Andrea Hansen, 608.785.6509 or hansen.andr@uwlax.edu
Printable Membership Form (2 page PDF)
