The Home Care Association of New York State (HCANYS ) is calling on lawmakers to provide equitable funding in the final state budget for home care providers.
While the organization notes that the proposed state budget includes $3.7 billion in new healthcare funding, it argues that none of those dollars are directed to home care providers who deliver services that help more than 1 million New Yorkers age in place.
“Home care is a core element of New York’s health care system,” HCANYS President and CEO Al Cardillo, said in a news release about the need for funding. “Without equitable investment, providers cannot sustain services, recruit and retain staff, or meet the growing needs of an aging and medically complex population. The consequences are real; thousands of vulnerable individuals are left scrambling for care.”
Chronic underfunding and workforce shortages have strained providers across New York’s in-home care sector, contributing to operating losses and agency closures, experts say.
In a new public awareness campaign, HCANYS is calling for a number of priorities, including Medicaid reimbursement of state-mandated wages, benefits and more. In addition, it is looking for new funding for workforce support.
Investment in the next generation of caregivers is essential to meet demand for home health care workers, said Maria Santiago, the founder of Westbury-based Home Health Aide Training Institute.
“To attract the best quality students for home care … they must know they’ll receive competitive wages upon graduation, allowing them to cover their living expenses while enabling other families to work,” she said.
“Additionally, it is essential to provide comprehensive training programs, such as ours, that equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in their roles,” she said. “By investing in their education and professional growth, we not only improve the quality of care but also elevate the status of home care as a respected and fulfilling career.”
She added that “nurturing a supportive community and fostering a culture of appreciation will help ensure that these workers feel valued and motivated. Providing opportunities for career advancement, into nursing and other associated fields, can significantly contribute to retaining talented individuals.”
And she said, “by focusing on fair compensation, education and recognition, we can establish a strong home care workforce that benefits both caregivers and the families who depend on their services.”
Mildred Gallery, director of community outreach at GR Homecare, a licensed homecare agency that serves Nassau County and New York City, said investment into the sector is key.
“Without fair compensation for home care workers, home care will cease to exist,” Gallery told Long Island Business News. “
“Home care workers are just as vital as the services they provide,” Gallery said. “Without these essential workers, many families will be left with no choice but to seek facility living.”
And she pointed out that home care services also impact the economy.
“The stability of home care relies on their presence,” she said of the providers. “When home care workers arrive for their shifts, it allows families to maintain their jobs. Conversely, if these workers are absent, families face the risk of losing their employment. In essence, their commitment enables everyone else to continue working.”