The Institute of Medicine (IOM) needs more input from direct-care workers on its recent report on the health care workforce, according to a letter (pdf) to the IOM from the Iowa CareGivers Association (ICA).
Retooling for an Aging America, the IOM’s report, did mention the need for more direct-care worker leadership, the ICA letter notes, but only within the workplace. “We strongly believe that there is a need for leadership outside the workplace as well through DCW associations or labor unions so workers can become leaders within their profession and their issues, concerns, and opinions considered directly.”
In addition, the letter urged the IOM to invite DCWs to review and comment on the report. “DCWs bring a unique perspective to these important issues that directly impact them and those they serve, and it is a perspective that has been ignored and devalued for far too long.”
The letter also suggests several other ways of carrying out or bolstering the report’s recommendations.
Elise Nakhnikian, Senior Online Editor
enakhnikian@phinational.org
Vermont has the Vermont Association for Professional Care Providers which is a wonderful opportunity for direct care workers to participate outside work. I have had the opportunity to participate as a reader and commenter on a course for personal care attendants and on a list of standards for a qualified personal care attendant. It has been wonderful working with people on a state level from varied disciplines. VAPCP has also provided educational opportunities and socialization with other DCWs outside the workplace. ICA should tap into VAPCP.-Katherine