PHI has been covering the effects of rising gas prices on direct-care workers since early this summer. Now, as our nation’s economic crisis grows more severe, the challenge to these low-wage workers has intensified.

The National Direct Service Workforce Resource Center held a webinar earlier this week called “Gas Price Increases & Other Transportation Challenges for Direct Service Workers.” The presentation included an overview of the problem, a description of approaches used by states and providers to address the issue, and information on related Medicaid reimbursement policies and options.

On one slide of the powerpoint used in the webinar, we learn the following about the impact of rising gas prices on area agencies on aging:

• over 50% said they have cut back on programs
• 90% say they expect to make cuts in the 2009 fiscal year
• 70% say it is more difficult to recruit

For more information, download the 18-slide powerpoint (ppt 373k) used in the presentation.

Aaron Toleos, Online Communications Director
atoleos@phinational.org