Long Term Care Initiatives in Vermont

Patrick FloodCommissionerVermont Department of Aging and Disabilities

As a Licensed Nurse’s Aide (LNA) in a Nursing Home, What I Wanted Most:

More moneyMore staffMore continuity of careMore of a say in how the work was

done

Vermont Survey of Personal Care Givers

The caregivers cited: – low wages and benefits– lack of respect and appreciation by

supervisors and professional staff– poor working conditions such as lack of staff – inflexibility – desire to be more involved in care decision-

making

Improved Nursing Home Staffingin Vermont

Staffing Minimums Average staffing statewide increased.

Increased Wages “Wage Supplements” appropriated twice. The average wage for an LNA in a nursing

home has risen from $8.14 in 1998 to $10.41 in 2002.

Other Initiatives in Vermont

“Career Ladder” opportunities– LNA II program

Development of a Caregiver’s Association– To strengthen caregivers’ voice

Development of a set of “best practices” to promote recruitment and retention– Coordination with Nursing Home Association and

Home Health Association

Consumer-Directed Option

Especially effective in home care Brings friends, neighbors and relatives into

the work force who otherwise are unlikely to work for a facility or agency.

Gets high customer satisfaction Costs less than agency or facility care