DOH Considers Steps to Get Home Care Aides Back to Work

In discussions with the Department of Health (DOH), LeadingAge NY has learned that the Department is contemplating issuing guidance to licensed home care services agencies (LHCSAs) to return inactive aides back to active status on agency rosters. Among the considerations is requiring agencies to set termination dates for inactive aides to compel them to return to work.

In comments to the Department, LeadingAge NY, along with our colleagues at the Home Care Association of New York State (HCA) and the New York State Association of Health Care Providers (HCP), urged DOH to refrain from taking any action now to set limits on how long aides can remain "inactive" and when they must be terminated. Instead, we expressed concern regarding the current dire shortage of aides faced by home care agencies; asked the Department to assist agencies in attracting and training new aides, and retaining existing aides; and requested support to address the current standstill in training opportunities for potential aides.

While many LeadingAge NY LHCSA members are implementing termination policies, we urged DOH to allow agencies discretion and flexibility to ensure an eventual return to work by aides on their rosters, as there continue to be many different factors contributing to the status of inactive employees. Any guidance issued should be recommendations rather than requirements.

Members are encouraged to reach out to LeadingAge NY to provide feedback on the issue of inactive status of aides and barriers to aide training. Thank you to those members who have offered their input.

Contact: Meg Everett, meverett@leadingageny.org, 518-929-9342